Germany's Manuel Neuer all too aware of Cristiano Ronaldo's lethal threat
GERMANY goalkeeper Manuel Neuer says playing a team of Portugal's caliber and featuring a star of Cristiano Ronaldo's class gives their World Cup group opener an elevated status.
"After that match, we will really know where we stand," Neuer told a news conference Sunday.
Today's Group G encounter is a rematch of the Euro 2012 opener, when Germany beat Portugal 1-0.
Three points in this match will go a long way toward helping the winner advance from a group that also contains Ghana and the United States.
And Neuer, feeling upbeat after recovering from a shoulder injury, said: "In a way, it's almost like a final."
Despite lingering knee problems, Ronaldo is likely to play. Neuer said: "If he is fit, he will be the top danger for our team."
World Cup Daily Wrap Up - Saturday 14 June
What a wonderful and warming reception we´re having in Campinas. Thank you everyone #forçaportugal http://t.co/QsUcMga4VZ
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) June 12, 2014