Loew urges caution against France

27 February 2012 19:21

Germany coach Joachim Loew urged his team to be cautious as they prepare to face France in an international friendly in Bremen on Wednesday.

Germany are using the France match as part of their ongoing preparations for Euro 2012, where they find themselves in a tough group with Portugal, Denmark and the Netherlands, and he expects a stern test from Laurent Blanc's men.

"I think France are a different side to the one we saw at World Cup 2010 in South Africa," Loew said.

"They have a new manager and have only lost one game since September 2010 - they haven't lost in a long time. I think they have only conceded four goals in their last 10 games. That shows how well-organised and well-disciplined the French side has become."

"They are defensively very difficult to break down and have very good players going forward, some of whom I believe are among the best in the world - Ribery, (Samir) Nasri, (Eric) Abidal, (Patrice) Evra - and I could go on."

"They are playing at the very best clubs and have a lot of quality. I am expecting an interesting test and we will learn a lot, as always. We will use what we know about the French to prepare as thoroughly as possible."

Loew in particular spoke about Franck Ribery, the Bayern Munich winger, who scored twice for his club in the Bundesliga at the weekend.

"Here in Germany, Franck Ribery has given several excellent performances in the Bundesliga. When he's in a one-on-one situation he is truly superb," he said.