Now we have set our sights on World Cup gold

class=”sc-29f61514-0 kHgAwW”>

No NHL star would come directly to the Nati after the playoffs for a goal in the quarterfinals. “It’s no secret that the gold medal is our goal.” That says Nico Hischier (24), the captain of the New Jersey Devils. Only five days after the bitter elimination against Carolina in the quarter-finals (1:4), the Valaisers enter the dressing room of the Swiss after their 5-0 win against Kazakhstan.

In between there is a rollercoaster of emotions for Hischier and Devils defender Jonas Siegenthaler (26), discussions with club doctors and national coach Patrick Fischer, a flight to Switzerland, a night at home, the journey to Riga – and the arrival at the team. “We have big goals. As a player you want to be part of that and I’m glad I get the chance to do that. We know we can make history here,” says Hischier. Siegenthaler also confirms that big things are planned What color is it “Gold.”

Hischier and Siegenthaler are physically and mentally fit

The arrival of the Devils duo two days after Kings star striker Kevin Fiala (26) not only makes this national team complete – but extremely strong. You literally feel the realization, the energy, that a triumph is possible at this tournament. The former Swiss restraint is outwardly washed away with the clear announcements of Hischier and Siegenthaler. But even national coach Fischer (47) has confidently adjusted the goal formulation upwards in recent years.

Both players are brushing aside concerns about their physical and mental health after this long NHL season. “I feel ready for the games, otherwise I wouldn’t be here,” emphasizes Hischier, “if not, I would have been honest with Fischer.” Siegenthaler didn’t have to think long either: “Of course I play for the national team when my body is fit. We end up in a very good team here. That made the decision even easier.”

Nati with a broad chest

Both emphasize the special team spirit as an additional reason. “It’s a nice group with which it’s fun to play hockey,” says Hischier, “especially if we’re at the top afterwards. Everyone gives full throttle for it.” The NHL reinforcements, as well as the consistent performances in the tournament so far, are worth their weight in gold for the confidence. After the three wins against Slovenia, Norway and Kazakhstan, the Nati are still goalless, with a goal difference of 15:0 and with a big chest.

However, the tests with Slovakia, Canada, the Czech Republic and Latvia are still to come. “We don’t have to hide,” says Hischier, “but it certainly won’t be easy.” As a team you want to improve from match to match. “We are not thinking about the quarter-finals yet, but only about the match against the Slovaks.” The Swiss national team will play against them for the first time on Thursday with the complete star ensemble.

Source : Blick