On 24 and 25 June 2023, Luxembourg's under 18 boys' field hockey team made their international debut in two friendly matches against France U18. Despite losing both games, the team showed real promise.

The games served as a crucial preparation step for the upcoming European Cup in Swansea, where Luxembourg will face the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Switzerland in the group phase. Scheduled from 9 to 15 July, the tournament holds great significance for the young athletes.

Despite a 1-7 and 0-7 loss, head coach Federico Tanuscio remains optimistic about the team's potential. The match against France showcased the determination and resilience of the Luxembourg U-18 team.

The lineup, featuring talented players such as Yassine Ammar, Rafael Bouillot, Maximilien Clarinval, Guillaume Mackel, Pierre Mackel, Giulian Mahy, Ludovic Masset, Thimothée Melin, Alexandre Outlet, Loic Prost-Gargoz, Hugo Puissant, Pavel Singh, Laurent Sweerts, Leander Ulitzka, Thomas Van Blerk, Lohen Verschoren, and Arthur Wittamer, displayed their skills on the field. Supported by assistant coach Lokdeep Singh and team manager Fiona-Lisei Rickli, the coaching staff provided guidance and support throughout the game.

While the final score may not have favoured Luxembourg, the match was a valuable learning experience for the young team. Tanuscio and his coaching staff will carefully analyse the game footage, identifying areas for improvement and fine-tuning their strategies ahead of the European Cup.

The upcoming tournament in Swansea offers an exciting opportunity for the Luxembourg U-18 team to compete on an international stage. The friendly match against France provided invaluable lessons and insights that will contribute to their performance in the group phase. The players are determined to showcase their skills and leave a lasting impression in the tournament.

Hockey's growing popularity in Luxembourg is evident, and the progress of the U-18 team reflects the nation's commitment to the sport. The Luxembourg Hockey Federation, along with dedicated coaches and players, has played a pivotal role in nurturing young talents and providing them with opportunities to represent their country.

As the European Cup draws near, the Luxembourg U-18 team will continue their preparations, focusing on refining their tactics and enhancing their physical conditioning. Tanuscio and his staff have unwavering confidence in the team's ability to deliver an impressive performance in Swansea. Their dedication to development, teamwork, and resilience will drive them towards success and make their nation proud.

The friendly match against France marked a significant milestone for the Luxembourg U-18 field hockey team. Despite the loss, the players showcased their potential and determination. With the unwavering support of the hockey community and the nation as a whole, Luxembourg's U-18 team is poised to achieve remarkable feats in the sport.