Luis Figo (l.) had his share of tussles with Germany stars such as Oliver Kahn (r.), but says the World Champions will be tough to beat in Russia. - © © imago
Luis Figo (l.) had his share of tussles with Germany stars such as Oliver Kahn (r.), but says the World Champions will be tough to beat in Russia. - © © imago

Barcelona and Real Madrid great Luis Figo: "It will be very hard to compete against Germany"

xwhatsappmailcopy-link

Portugal legend Luis Figo has labelled Germany as one of the toughest opponents for any team at this summer's FIFA World Cup while also praising the country's talent production line.

"Again they have a highly balanced team and Joachim Löw, already a coaching legend of the World Cup who, for me, remains extremely focused," said the former Real Madrid and Barcelona star Figo to German sports magazine kicker. "His strengths have shown in Germany's performances at the last tournaments, and the team is by-no-means weakened compared to 2014.

"So they are one of the top favourites for the World Cup title."

Germany open their World Cup campaign against Mexico on 17 June before facing Sweden on 23 June and South Korea on 27 June to complete the group stages.

Figo, who made 127 international appearances for Portugal and played in two World Cups, has also said that he has a great respect for the way Germany continue to produce exceptional football talent.

Watch: Germany's next golden generation!

"I find this constant interchange of the German team really fascinating. New talents are permanently coming to what is an already great squad. It will once again be very hard to compete against this team."

Click here to find out more on Germany’s World Cup!