Germany face Portugal in must-win tie

Germany coach Joachim Loew

Germany coach Joachim Loew is under pressure to find a way for his side to create more chances when they host holders Portugal at Euro on Saturday, with their hopes of reaching the knock-out stage hanging in the balance. A tense 1-0 defeat by France in their opening Group F game leaves the Germans needing a result against Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal.

Loew's efforts to strengthen Germany's defence meant only a Mats Hummels own goal was the difference against world champions France. However, the hosts managed just one shot on target on Tuesday. "If we can be more vigorous up front, we will be able to beat Portugal," said Loew.

Germany have won their last four meetings with Portugal over the last two decades, most recently with a 4-0 victory in the 2014 World Cup group stage as the Germans went on to win the title in Brazil. However, the fear in Germany is that a loss to Portugal could see Euro become a repeat of the national humiliation suffered at the 2018 World Cup. The Germans finished bottom of their group in Russia.

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