“Ready and waiting”

Lisa Schmitz speaks ahead of what’s set to be her VfL debut against Paris FC.

VfL-Wolfsburg-Torhüterin Lisa Schmitz wehrt einen Ball ab.

With Merle Frohms unavailable for the UEFA Women’s Champions League play-off first leg against Paris FC on Tuesday night (kick-off at 19:00 CEST, live on Wölfe TV), new signing Lisa Schmitz is set to make her debut for VfL. The 31-year-old goalkeeper arrived from HSC Montpellier in the summer, so she’s familiar with Paris FC from the French league. In an interview, the shot-stopper discusses the opponents and her feelings ahead of her first outing for the She-Wolves.

Lisa Schmitz, how are you feeling ahead of your likely VfL debut?

Lisa Schmitz: “The injury to Merle was a shock for all of us. Nevertheless, of course I’m looking forward to playing my first game for VfL and my first ever Champions League game. It’s always been clear for me: when my moment comes, I’m ready and waiting.”

VfL-Wolfsburg-Torhüterin Lisa Schmitz und Svenja Huth lachen.

You know Paris FC from the league. What experiences have you had with the club so far?

Lisa: “I played against Paris FC for four years and we always had hard-fought, close games against this team. I think we can expect tough opposition, but I’m confident in my team. If we show what we’re made of, then we should be capable of beating Paris FC.”

You’re playing at the Stade Charléty in Paris. What’s it like as a stadium?

Lisa: “The stadium is very spacious, there’s an athletics track around it, so you’re not that close to the stands. But in the league there were always plenty of spectators there, and obviously Champions League qualifying is something else. I hope there’ll be a good atmosphere.”