Rudi looks to Ballack

Germany’s form has been so mediocre, it would not be a huge surprise if they were eliminated.

THE presence of so many Bundesliga players in the Czech Republic squad is a huge encouragement to a subdued Germany ahead of their critical game in Group D of the European Championship in Lisbon tonight.

Six of the Czech Republic squad play their club football in Germany. Familiarity, added to the certainty the Czechs will rest some of their stars, is expected to give Germany the edge they will need to pick up the points they must win if they are to advance.