Loew wary of talented Portugal

Germany head coach Joachim Loew has hailed the quality of Portugal ahead of the Euro 2012 Group B contest between the two sides.

As one of the pre-tournament favourites for the European Championship title, Germany are tipped to defeat Portugal in their opening match, but Loew has warned his players about the quality of Paulo Bento’s team.

“Portugal have the capacity to defeat any side,” Loew said.

“They have very good players, who play at big clubs.

“They have gone far in these tournaments. They have excellent players.

“Cristiano Ronaldo is fantastic and can decide a match on his own, but they also have other players like Nani and Pepe.”

While several members of his squad featured in Germany’s run to the semi-finals of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Loew has continued to introduce new talent to the national set-up.

“We have a young team,” he said.

“I like youth, dynamism and quality. I put that in first place, even before experience.

“Football has become very intense. Experience also counts, but not as much as before.”

Loew said his players are anxious for the tournament to begin, but refused to disclose his plans for the match against Portugal.

“There is always some pressure, but our team is fine,” he said.

“I have thought a lot about my starting XI, I have had many indications from the training sessions, but I still have to make my decisions.”