Meira familiar with German threat

Portugal defender Fernando Meira expects a tough contest against Germany in Thursday's quarter-final despite the 1996 winners' mixed form at UEFA EURO 2008™.

Sudden death

Dead-ball threat
The VfB Stuttgart centre-back, Bundesliga-based for six and a half years, is well-placed to talk about the foremost characteristics of German football. "We know that German football is very physical and athletic, that they will try and make use of dead-ball situations, free-kicks and corners," he said. Meira's versatility – and height – has prompted coach Scolari to use him in midfield at some stage in all of Portugal's matches so far. "The coach knows I can successfully fill both positions, because I'm essentially a team player," the 30-year-old said.

Lesson learned
Meira also explains that Portugal have suffered no ill-effects from the defeat by Switzerland in their Group A finale, adding that the inclusion of fringe players for that game meant it was a good learning experience. "In the first half we played well, but in the second, after conceding the first goal, we found it very difficult to react," he admitted. "But I think the most important thing is that all the players now know exactly what they have to do."

Experience important
With Scolari's five appointed captains being rested against Switzerland, the coach entrusted Meira with the armband in Basel on Sunday – a responsibility he relished. "We have a very young group so the thirtysomethings have to pass some of their experience on to the younger players, even if football is different now from even a few years ago," said Meira. According to the Stuttgart stalwart, the maturity of today's youngsters is particularly striking. "Today you can see 18-year-olds with more experience and maturity than young players of ten years ago."

Unity
As Portugal seek to give Scolari the ultimate send-off before his departure by winning UEFA EURO 2008™, Meira underlines the key achievement of the Brazilian. "Without doubt the team spirit is the most valuable thing in the dressing room. Everybody knows the national team is like a family and Scolari has made this even more so," he said. "He has tried to get across to us that spirit and unity are a strength. He's managed to completely unite the group."