Löw expects to avoid Greek tragedy
It has been suggested by the German media that Greece will provide a test similar to the one Bayern Munich faced in last month’s Champions League final, when Roberto di Matteo’s Blues prevailed on penalties at the Allianz Arena.
Löw was not giving much credence to such comparisons yesterday, but nevertheless warned his side to be on their guard.
“I have heard a few times that they are the Chelsea of the Mediterranean, but it is not that way,” he said.
“Greece play good combination football. Their defence is strong, they are strong in the tackle and defending and countering is in their blood.
“They have been playing that way for years. It was similar or practically the same in 2004 [when they became European champions in Portugal].
“They get written off sometimes, but then they are always there.”
Löw expects the clash to be similar to that night in Munich in Gdansk today, although he is confident there will be a more positive outcome from a German perspective.
“Logically we are favourites, but we can deal with that,” he said.
“But remember — knockout games have their own character so it won’t be the case that the favourite automatically reaches the next round.
“We saw that in the group when Russia were the big favourites and we have all seen what happened.
“But if we show all of our inner strength and belief, then we are strong enough to beat the Greeks of course.
“I am convinced we will win.”
Greece coach Santos is not ignoring that fact either, but he says nothing can be taken for granted in football.
“If we see it as a David and Goliath task, then this is good for us because we all know that Goliath lost,” he said.
“They are a big team and usually get to the semi-finals and we are talking about a very consistent nation.
“But I am willing to accept the role of David, just as long as history repeats itself.”
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