Germany had to be at their persistent best to begin the tournament with a narrow 1-0 win over a stubborn Portugal outfit. Germany made it 12 wins on the bounce after overcoming a disappointing Portugal with a goal in the second half from Mario Gomez, whilst their opponents poor run of form continues with only one win in their last seven outings.
Certainly Portugal looked to damage limitation by seeking to frustrate their opponents whilst looking to score on the break. In a dull opening period Pepe, against the run of play, did hit the bar before the ball bounced down onto the German line.
The game continued in much the same way after the restart with the German's looking increasingly frustrated until a moment of good fortune decided the game.
Sami Khedira's deflected cross fell kindly for Gomez who headed powerfully past Pedro Rui Patricio to break the deadlock.
In the remaining 19 minutes Portugal finally showed some attacking intent and began to create chances. Nani clipped the woodwork, German defenders blocked goalbound efforts and keeper Manuel Neuer made a couple of fine saves.
But it was too little too late for the Portuguese who have now failed to score in four of their last six games.
Referee: Stéphane Lannoy (FRA)
Venue: Arena Lviv, Lviv
Attendance: 33,951
Germany scorers: Gomez 71 Portugal scorers:
Yellow cards: Badstuber (GER), Boateng (GER), Postiga (POR), Coentrao (POR)
