“I used to dream of it” | OneFootball

For Eintracht defender Robin Koch, a “huge dream” is coming true with his participation in the EURO. The 27-year-old talks about his excitement, the group opponents and his ‘home match’ in Frankfurt.

Robin, EURO 2024 is just around the corner. How does it feel to be selected by Germany for such a big tournament in your own country? “It’s extraordinary. It’s always a great honour to play for Germany and be involved in the internationals. A tournament is even bigger and a home EURO is the final stage, so to speak (laughs). It doesn’t get better. Every child dreams of this, I used to dream of it. The fact that such a huge dream is now coming true is very special for me and makes me proud.”

So, how are the anticipation and tension? “The anticipation is growing with each day. We’ve been together for a while now and we’re looking forward to it finally getting started. The tension has to run high and is running high as the game approaches.”

You start against Scotland. How do you rate the first opponents? “They have a very physical style, want to win the second balls and then cross the ball into the box pretty quickly to create chances. It’s no easy task, but we’re very well prepared and very confident of starting the tournament well.”

All the games will be special, but the third group game against Switzerland will certainly be extra special for you: it’s being played in Frankfurt, in your back yard.

“Yes, absolutely! The game against Netherlands in Frankfurt [editor’s note: 2-1 friendly win in March 2024] was special. At the European Championship it’s even more special because you’re really playing for something. It’s obviously nice for me that it’s taking place in my back yard.”

What personal goals have you set, then? “The team’s success clearly comes first. Whatever happens, I’m ready and willing to help the team on the pitch. At these tournaments, though, when you’re together for such a long time, it’s just as important that you have a good atmosphere – and we most certainly have that. We get on well and that always shows on the pitch. That's what it's all about for each of us: that everyone helps the team in their role in the best possible way so that we can be successful together.”