30 June,2014 07:41 AM IST | | Agencies
They may be a lowly 44th in the world rankings, but Germany striker Miroslav Klose has urged his teammates to be wary of the Algerians whom they face in a Round-of-16 encounter tonight in Porto Alegre
Porto Alrgre: They may be a lowly 44th in the world rankings, but Germany striker Miroslav Klose has urged his teammates to be wary of the Algerians whom they face in a Round-of-16 encounter tonight in Porto Alegre.
"We must not underestimate the Algerians in any way, as the World Cup really gets going now," the Lazio striker told Bild.
Germany striker Miroslav Klose
"We need to be wary, because against the smaller teams even the slightest distraction can mean you're knocked out.
"If we play with our hearts, then we can go all the way. We've got to give everything to the last second. The reward that awaits us at the end of that road is fantastic," he added.
Klose has already equalled Ronaldo's record of 15 goals in World Cup finals, and is eager to take the top spot by himself.
Germany's Thomas Mueller (second right) celebrates with midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger (left), Miroslav Klose (second left), Toni Kroos (third left), Benedikt Hoewedes (third right) and Mats Hummels (right) after scoring against USA on Thursday at the Pernambuco Arena. PIC/AFP
However, he said that given an option he would prefer Germany winning the World Cup than personal glory.
"The title with the team is far more important to me," he was quoted as saying in German magazine, Kicker.
"What is more bitter for me is that I cannot help the team from kick-off. So I bring all of my other qualities (to the team). I live for this World Cup dream."
Despite his role as a substitute, Klose insists he does not feel hurt and only wants to help the team in whatever way he can. "I'm not offended because I know that, as always, I can help the team. I'm the head there, you could see that against Ghana. I have a brutal head but I'm preparing as always."
