Germany’s Bastian Schweinsteiger warned on Wednesday against “provocations” by Argentina in their quarterfinal clash in Cape Town on Saturday.
Schweinsteiger recalled the match between the two sides at the same stage of the 2006 tournament in Germany, which ended in scuffles and led to a suspension for midfielder Torsten Frings.
“We mustn’t let ourselves be influenced by their provocations. I hope the referee prevents this,” the Bayern Munich midfielder said.
Schweinsteiger said the Argentinians try to provoke their opponents and attempt to influence referees during games.
“It shows a lack of respect, but that’s the way the Argentinians are. I hope the referee has a good day,” he said.
“We have players with yellow cards and it is important to be calm and concentrate on our own game. I hope it is a game with few provocations.”
Schweinsteiger, who played against Argentina as a member of the 2006 World Cup squad, said Germany was capable of beating the South Americans, who have won all four of their games.
“We are confident, but we know Argentina’s strengths and that small things can decide games at this level. We mustn’t make many mistakes,” said Schweinsteiger.
The team would “try collectively” to stop Lionel Messi.
“Other teams have done so, he hasn’t scored any goals so far, but there are other players who we have to watch out for,” he said.
Coach Joachim Loew said a day’s break had done the squad good and all were training apart from striker Cacau, who has a stomach muscle strain and remains doubtful for the match.
Loew said he expected an intense and tight match similar to the encounter four years ago, which went to a penalty shoot-out won by Germany. — DPA