Euro 2020: Low ‘optimistic’ for Germany against Portugal

Jason Soutar
Joachim Low
Joachim Low

Germany boss Joachim Low has said that he is ‘optimistic’ for his side to do well against European champions Portugal in Saturday’s Group F encounter.

The Germans were defeated 1-0 by world champions France in their opening match courtesy of a Mats Hummels own goal, but put in a decent performance on the day.

Portugal on the other hand defeated Hungary 3-0 on Tuesday after a late-game flurry of goals and a Cristiano Ronaldo brace.


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Speaking before the match, Low reflected on the France defeat and weighed up Germany’s chances against Portugal.

“On Tuesday evening we were all disappointed because we lost bitterly to an unfortunate own goal.

“However, we reworked the game extensively, also with a view to what we have to and will do differently against Portugal.

We had a good defensive performance against France, but didn’t create enough chances to score. We are optimistic that things will go better against Portugal.

“We are approaching the game with focus and are confident that we will get a positive result,” said Löw (as captured by the DFB website).

“Tactically, we have to bring something new into the game, which means above all new offensive power. We have to react differently in some situations and occupy other spaces.

“We were well organized defensively, so no major tactical changes are planned.”

Facing the attacking power of this Portuguese side is a daunting task, and the German boss insists that there is a lot more to the side than just Ronaldo.

“Portugal has remained structurally together since the Euro 2016. They are strong in aerial combat in defense and, above all, on the offensive.

“Portugal is not a one-man show by Ronaldo. You have four or five world-class attacking players. In terms of breadth, they are perhaps even better positioned than France.

“In 2012, 2014, 2016, the entire game of Portugal was focused on Ronaldo. This is no longer the case. There are significantly more outstanding offensive players.

“Of course, Ronaldo is a special player who can do more than just move coke bottles. He’s quick, he’s got a good header. We have to see how we can get it under control.”