Germany draw strength from adversity

It is a more nerve-racking position than Germany probably anticipated for their last game in Group B, but Simon Rolfes, the midfielder hoping to break into the team if coach Joachim Löw decides on changes, believes the experience will make the squad stronger and more united.

Meeting the challenge
"Our objective has always been to become European champions," said Rolfes, "which is why, even though this is a knockout game, it's good for us to have this opportunity to meet the challenge. I think it will make the team even closer and stronger. We are all looking forward to the match. We are a little tense but we have always shown that when the going gets tough, we manage to get going."

Clear the air
Having lost to Croatia on Thursday, Löw's side can ill-afford a second stumble against Austria. Defeat would send them home though a draw would be enough to secure a quarter-final berth behind the Croatians. An open forum involving the squad following the defeat could be just the push they need. "Everybody was encouraged to pitch in with their opinion in the hope that the discussions would have a positive effect," explained the Bayer 04 Leverkusen player. "We have already improved and there are a number of improvements we can still make. But I don't think there are any major problems in the team because of the defeat."

Starting chance
Rolfes' appearance at the pre-match news conference has led to speculation in the German media that Rolfes could start in Vienna but he claims to have no knowledge of the lineup. It is the 26-year-old's first major tournament and he is enjoying the experience. "I was impressed to see, over the last few weeks, how we were being treated as favourites in the papers and on television. But I know how quickly football changes from one day to the next," he said. "The important thing is to focus on your own game."