World Kick Off

Michael Ballack has admitted that there will be a host of teams at Euro 2008 that are capable of outplaying Germany, but is confident still that they will be a force to be reckoned with based on attitude and team ethic alone.

Germany were held to a 2-2 draw at home to Belarus in their first warm-up match ahead of this summer’s European Championships. The home side let a two goal lead slip and a second half double from Vitali Bulyga handed Belarus a deserved draw.

Speaking after the surprise draw, the Chelsea man said: "It is not an excuse, but the training camp is very physical, people are tired, but I am sure we will be on form for the beginning of the tournament.

"Against Serbia on Saturday, you will see a different match.

"When you look at our group, I think we will make the quarter-finals," the skipper added.

"There are many teams who are a little better than us in terms of technical quality or individual talent, but I believe that our enthusiasm and team spirit can compensate."

Joachim Loew's side will take on Serbia in their final official warmup game on Saturday, after which they will be all business in Group B along with Poland, Croatia and co-hosts Austria.

Derek Wanner, Goal.com

Sigombak