BERLIN, July 11 (Xinhua) -- Team captain Alexandra Popp sees the German women's footballers on a mission at the European Championships in England.

Ahead of the team's second group encounter against Spain this Tuesday evening, the 114 times capped striker said nothing less than the sport's future in Germany is at stake.

"We are somehow on a mission," the 31-year-old commented after crushing Denmark 4-0 in their tournament curtain-raiser.

"Delivering success makes us a vital part when it comes to women's football back home. You have to say this frankly," the 2016 Olympic champion added.

The Wolfsburg player said success means talking about the semifinals as a basis.

Popp believed Germany can play a significant role in England, while nations such as the co-host France and Spain are regarded as the competition's favorites.

"I guess we should be on the list too," Popp said, talking about the squad having abandoned its role as the tournament underdogs.

Not only in Popp's perspective, the German squad has developed into a robust but playful side over the past months.

Spain stands for a bigger challenge than Denmark, "but we can rely on young and determined players coming from the bench. We have a squad full of players on an equal level."

Popp said that crossing swords with Spain is going to decide the group's win.

The German captain reported significant developments in tactics and communication. Covering an extensive distance has become a matter of course.

After winning eight of the 12 past continental tournaments (last in 2013) but meanwhile having lost contact with the world's leading nations, the current competition must be a turning point for women's football, Popp stated.

"We have set the first mark, but it needs more. We all are aware of that," she added. Enditem

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