Germany clinging to slender hopes

"All we can do is win our match and see what destiny holds for us," said Germany goalkeeper and captain Oliver Kahn. There will be little at stake for Portugal, who made sure of winning their group by beating Romania 1-0 on Saturday.

The Portuguese, nicknamed the "Brazilians of Europe" for their footballing skills, impressed by fighting back from two goals down for a dramatic 3-2 win over England in their opening match.

But star players Luis Figo and Rui Costa, who were instrumental then, failed to shine in a dull game against Romania which Portugal won courtesy of a goal from substitute Costinha in injury time.

"I think scoring in the last minute of a tactical game was phenomenal — so now we can look ahead," said Portuguese coach Humberto Coelho.

Eusebio, Portugal’s most famous name from the past, predicted another victory over Germany.

"I expect us to win the game," he said.

Coelho assured reporters he was taking the final group match seriously and had no intention of fielding the reserves.

"I will not rest anybody," he said. "We’re not thinking about the next round yet. We’re focussing entirely on the match against Germany."

Germany head coach Erich Ribbeck, who dropped few hints over his starting line-up, suggested Tuesday’s match might be his last in the top job.

"We still have one game to play," said Ribbeck, who has been under pressure ever since he took over from Berti Vogts in September 1998.

"Then I will meet with the German Football Federation officials and we will see what has to be done," he added.

Record-breaking Lothar Matthaeus, who will end his prolific international career after the tournament, is also on the way out.

The 39-year-old libero will win his 150th cap on Tuesday — possibly his last.

Ribbeck was expected to give another chance to 20-year-old midfielder Sebastian Deisler, who produced a spirited display against England.

The Germany coach said towering Bayern Munich striker Carsten Jancker would keep his place. But Ulf Kirsten, who partnered him on Saturday and looked lost on the pitch, could start on the bench.

If he comes on, the 34-year-old Kirsten will celebrate his 100th international cap. He has won 49 for East Germany and 50 for the unified country.

Should Germany bow out, they would disappear from a major tournament in the group stage for the first time since the 1984 European Championship finals in France.

They were the defending champions then, too. (REUTERS)