Sports

Group D: Germany face tough rivals

(China Daily)
Updated: 2009-12-08 08:09

CAPE TOWN: Despite an unbeaten qualifying campaign, Germany coach Joachim Loew insists his side can take nothing for granted as they front up to Australia, Ghana and Serbia in World Cup Group D.

Germany have never lost to any of their three future opponents in previous meetings but Loew insists he is taking nothing for granted.

"I wouldn't say we were too lucky with the draw," said Loew, who succeeded Jurgen Klinsmann as head coach after the 2006 World Cup.

"It's not going to be an easy section but it's certainly not beyond us. What strikes me is that it's a very balanced group."

Germany open against Australia in Pretoria on June 13, then play Serbia in Rustenburg on June 19 before the pool stage final game against Ghana at Johannesburg's Soccer City on June 23.

Led by Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack (pictured), Germany face a potential banana skin in their opening game against the Australians, who reached the last 16 at the 2006 World Cup.

After Australia's 32-year absence from the world stage, it took a penalty deep into injury-time for eventual champions Italy to overcome the Socceroos in 2006 and continue their run to the crown.

AFP