With both teams out of contention for the top spot in the Champions Trophy here, India — also looking for their first points — take on Germany in a crucial encounter on Tuesday.A win would boost India’s chances of still winning the bronze, at least theoretically, provided they win their remaining matches and the playoff as well. And they have a realistic enough chance, given the fact that an experimental and under-strength Germany appears to be the favourite sounding board in the tournament after being pounded by both Pakistan and Spain.India, in contrast, have already played two tough matches, and would have gained in confidence after an improved performance against Holland in their second match on Sunday. They have been playing below par so far, with the different components not clicking as a unit yet. If the strikers were lacklustre in the first match against Spain, missing sitters galore, they managed to bounce back and score four against the world champions. But the defence continues to be a worry. Skipper Dilip Tirkey, the pivot around whom the entire backline revolves, appears off colour. William Xalxo has been practically invisible so far. And Harpal Singh is more of a liability than anything else.But there is good news in the shape of Prabodh Tirkey, who had an excellent day against the Dutch. Under the bars, Adrian D’Souza made a couple of mistakes in the Holland match, but was generally impressive with his fast rushes and good timing. Midfielder Vikram Pillay also showed flashes of brilliance, while Viren Rasquinha has been his usual reliable self.India will face Pakistan on Wednesday and New Zealand on Friday before Sunday’s classification matches.Holland, seeking to win their third title in a row, look all set to reach the final but face a serious obstacle in Pakistan on Tuesday. The hosts could provide a tough challenge with several players including ace drag flicker Sohail Abbas in good nick.On form, Spain — the Olympic semi-finalists — are expected to steamroll the New Zealand challenge in tomorrow’s other game even though the Black Sticks have shown tremendous resilience despite failing to win.
