Germany prepare to face 'a big World Cup team'

Those who have bet on Germany 2010 world cup success will note that they have to beat a "big side" if they are to have any chance of winning the World Cup and captain Philipp Lahm knows it.

His team brushed aside England with almost embarrassing ease on Sunday and even the most rabid Three Lions fan would find it hard to counter the suggestion that Fabio Capello's men were small fry when compared to the likes of Argentina.

However, Lahm seems acutely aware that his side, who many viewed as too inexperienced to mount a serious challenge at this tournament, will have to step up if they are to make it to the semi-finals.

He said: "We have to show we can finally beat a big team - someone like Argentina, Brazil or Spain.

"Definitely, these are bigger opponents than England."

Had he made similar comments in the run up to the last 16 tie they would have been placed in the category of mind games, but now they seem to be an accurate summary of the task Germany face.

If they do manage to go against the Germany world cup odds on this one and see off the South Americans, they face a semi-final against a Spain side who seem to be growing in confidence with each game, so Germany will need to be at their very best for three games if they are to achieve unexpected glory.

Whether they are capable of this remains to be seen. Admittedly, they could have been out of sight against England within the first half hour, but even so they almost let a two goal lead slip and they did look vulnerable as England pushed forwards.

In the end it was only the Three Lions' defensive frailties and Germany's devastating ability to counterattack which saw them run out comfortable winners. Argentina will be much more organised and Lahm's men will have to find a few more tricks in the locker if they are to make it to the semis.