Ballack expects Turkey battle

Germany skipper guards against complacency

Last updated: 24th June 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Ballack expects Turkey battle

Ballack: Predictions are not a strong point

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Germany captain Michael Ballack is refusing to under-estimate Turkey's 'never-say-die' attitude ahead of the Euro 2008 semi-finals.

Turkey are arguably the surprise package in the last four of the European Championship after sneaking through Group A with a last-gasp victory over Czech Republic and stunning Croatia on penalties in the quarter-finals.

And, after incorrectly tipping world champions Italy, France, Portugal and Croatia ahead of the tournament, Ballack is wary that Germany could become the latest surprise elimination.

Turkey have been decimated by injuries and suspensions to leave manager Fatih Terim struggling for options ahead of the meeting in Basel on Wednesday, but Ballack still expects a stern test.

"I admit I was utterly wrong with my predictions," said Ballack.

Mental strength

"But the only important thing is that we have a major chance to go through to the final.

"We know Turkey are missing a lot of players through injury and suspension but they have shown a never-say-die attitude."

And Ballack has pointed to the mental strength of Turkey - who Germany have not defeated for more than 16 years in a competitive fixture - as a crucial factor.

"Whoever you face at this stage you're going to get an even match," added Ballack.

"Their mental strength is a major factor, they can adapt to any opponent and they have a great motivator as a coach. We expect a very close game."