Exclusive interview with THW Kiel's Captain Marcus Ahlm

He has won the VELUX EHF Champions League twice, both in 2007 and 2010 and was among the finalists in 2008 and 2009: Marcus Ahlm (SWE), 33, is known as the “leader of the Zebras” as team captain of THW Kiel.

After missing the VELUX EHF FINAL4 in 2011, the hopes of the line player are high as he aspires to reach the final destination this season – so he tells us in the interview with ehfCL.com

But the way to Cologne is long and winding because THW Kiel still have the final top duel in their Group ahead of them. On Sunday, the Germans face AG Kobenhavn – and THW need at least a draw to finish first in their Group.

ehfCL.com: In the German Bundesliga, Kiel took 20 victories in 20 matches. In the VELUX EHF Champions League your team won the last six games in a tough Group. Are THW stronger than ever?

Marcus Ahlm: In my opinion, we can only validate the season when it is finished – only then will we see if THW are stronger than ever.

ehfCL.com: On Sunday, Kiel play the top duel at Kobenhavn racing for the Group victory. Is there any favourite in this game?

Marcus Ahlm: We don't care if there is a favourite in this game, we just want to win at Kobenhavn.

ehfCL.com: Did you expect such a course in this Group before the start?

Marcus Ahlm: We play in a ‘hammer group’, but we always try to give all we can.

ehfCL.com: What are the strengths of AG Kobenhavn?

Marcus Ahlm: They have a very uniform team with highly experienced players.

ehfCL.com: Is it possible to completely stop a player like Mikkel Hansen?

Marcus Ahlm: It is not our objective to stop a certain player but to win this game.

ehfCL.com: In the previous two seasons, THW Kiel proceeded to the knock-out stage as the respective number one of their Group. What importance would it have to remain on top again?

Marcus Ahlm: It's usually quite good but not decisive to have the second leg of those knock-out matches.

ehfCL.com: Do you think that it's possible for Kiel and Kobenhavn to meet again in Cologne?

Marcus Ahlm: This would be quite nice for us!

ehfCL.com: After missing the VELUX EHF FINAL4 in 2011 – how important would another participation in Cologne be?

Marcus Ahlm: It is our main objective in every season to be a part of all competitions until the very end.