The German playmaker dismissed claims that the Iberian side rely too much on Cristiano Ronaldo's talents.
Ahead of the mouth watering Group B encounter, the Real Madrid man joins in the mind games. Germany and Portugal face each other in Lviv on 9th June. Die Mannschaft come to Ukraine on the back of a few below par performances
and Ozil preaches caution ahead of the clash in Lviv Arena. The former Werder Bremen man urges his team mates to avoid focusing solely on Ronaldo.
"We are not playing against Cristiano Ronaldo. We are taking on Portugal," he was quoted as saying in an interview.
The German starlet believes that Paulo Bento’s side have enough quality in their ranks to give Die Nationalelf a run for their money. The 23-year old will line up against his teammates on Saturday and took time to praise Los Blancos
defenders Pepe and Coentrao who he reckons are equally important to Portugal as Roanldo.
Ozil is aware of the talents his Real Madrid teammates possess, and his side cannot afford to overlook the rest of the Portuguese team.
"They are collectively very strong and have some great individuals. Pepe is absolutely world-class in my opinion, and Fabio Coentrao has a lot of pace and technique,” he added.
The midfielder also warns his teammates against complacency because in his opinion Paulo Bento’s men are capable of lifting the Euro 2012 trophy on July 1st in Kiev.
"Portugal are one of the favourites to win the tournament, alongside Spain, Netherlands and France."
The Iberian side have been disappointing recently, when it comes to major tournaments. The last time they reached a final was back in 2004, when they were frustrated by Greeks, who lifted the trophy in Portugal.
Germany, however, would be cautious of not underestimating Paulo Bento’s side who have been underperforming recently.
Portugal have a side capable of beating any team in the world, if they realise their potential and try not to rely too much on their talisman Cristiano Ronaldo. Although the Real Madrid forward is capable of coming up with some
eye catching performances but when it comes to the big stage he has let his team down on a few occasions.
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