Austria v Germany

Jun 15 2008

CONFIDENT Philipp Lahm insists under-pressure Germany will still reach the final of Euro 2008.

The Bayern Munich full-back accused some of his team-mates of complacency after the 2-1 defeat by Croatia in midweek.

But he's adamant they can return to form tomorrow in the crunch clash with Austria - with Joachim Low's men needing a point to qualify alongside the Croats.

Cocky Lahm, who could return to his favoured left-back spot for the final Group B game, fully expects Germany to go all the way to the final showdown in Vienna on June 29.

He said: "We were hugely disappointed to lose against Croatia. Now we face a real cup final against Austria with a lot of pressure weighing down on us.

"It won't be easy but we have experienced players who have played at the highest level for their clubs and country.

"They should be able to handle the occasion.

So I'm convinced we'll qualify for the quarterfinals and optimistic of going all the way."

Lahm was shocked at the poor show against Croatia that dented German confidence and saw them removed as tournament favourites.

He said: "Maybe a few players thought we could take things a bit easier after winning our opener against Poland.

"We were shown that was not the case and it can't happen again. Austria beat Germany in a shock result at the 1978 World Cup but there won't be a repeat. We know exactly what needs to be done this time."

German coach Low is demanding a better display against Austria and is likely to shake up his attack, with a possible recall for veteran striker Oliver Neuville.

Low said: "Weneed 100 per cent concentration from the players.

"They didn't show their true colours against Croatia.

"The disappointment is still deep as we deserved to lose.

"We were undisciplined and never increased our tempo. Our combination play and general attitude wasn't acceptable.

"There will be some corrections to the team but we'll stick with the system that has been successful.

"A number of squad players have been pressing for a place with their performances in training.

"Lukas Podolski and Marcell Jansen are carrying knocks and we'll see how things develop."

Low knows he is under major pressure. A defeat by Austria would go down as one of the biggest Euro shocks of all time and put his job on the line.

But he said: "We expect Austria to fight for their lives. They have a unique chance to reach the quarter-finals with a win.

"They play attacking football and have impressed many people.

"It will be tough for us and it's a serious pressure situation. But we've shown we can cope with that.

"We'll approach the Austriagame differently. I promise we'll show hunger and a willing attitude."