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Semifinals

Germany vs Spain 20:30 SS3

ERASMIA - Germany’s World Cup semi-final opponents Spain are far more dangerous than Argentina, with their game based on the world’s best teamwork and not just individual qualities, said coach Joachim Loew.

Germany crushed the Argentines 4-0 in the last eight after stifling their playmaker Lionel Messi but Loew said European champions Spain were a completely different proposition.

"They are the country with the greatest consistency for the past two to three years,” the 50-year-old told reporters ahead of Wednesday’s showdown in Durban.

"Spain do not have one Messi. They have more than one Messi. Especially in attack there are many players who can decide a game. Spain are not like England and Argentina, teams that make mistakes,” added Loew.

"They make very few mistakes in offence or defence so we have to force them to make those mistakes.”

Loew, who will need to replace suspended striker Thomas Mueller, singled out Spain midfielders Xavi and Andres Iniesta as the engine that needs to be switched off.

"Spain’s midfield has a well-oiled axis with Iniesta and Xavi. But (Germany’s) Sami Khedira and (Bastian) Schweinsteiger are good as well so there will be a key situation there to carve out advantages.”

Agencies