Darmstadt (dpa/lhe) - Second division leaders SV Darmstadt 98 are optimistic about the final sprint before the World Cup break despite considerable personnel concerns. "We have enough lads eager to play a competitive game in front of a fantastic crowd in Magdeburg. Everyone knows how loud the stadium can be," said coach Torsten Lieberknecht on Tuesday. The "Lilien" are guests on Thursday (8.30 p.m.) at the newly promoted side and want to consolidate their lead over Hamburger SV with a win.

"It will be a challenge, but we're looking forward to the top game on Thursday evening," said Lieberknecht. The staff situation remains tense. None of the injured will come back, not even Aaron Seydel. The appearances of Jannik Müller and Christoph Zimmermann are also questionable. "Nevertheless, we're looking ahead, we're not complaining," said Lieberknecht.