Germany still has work to do against Denmark

Lviv, Ukraine – Germany has already downed its top opposition in the Euro 2012 "Group of Death," but it still needs at least a draw against Denmark on Sunday to secure a quarterfinal berth.

Germany downed Portugal and the Netherlands in its first two matches, and with six points, sits atop the Group B standings.

But with Denmark and Portugal both three points back, it's possible both teams could overtake Germany for a place in the knockout stage.

"What is clear in this so-called group of death," Germany manager Joachim Loew said, "is that we've already got six points."

Of course, all of those scenarios are irrelevant if the Germans defeat or draw the Danes in the final match of group play.

"With this victory (over the Netherlands) I think we've opened the door to the quarterfinals," Loew said Wednesday. "It's now in our hands."

Mario Gomez has scored all three German goals, as he notched the lone tally in a 1-0 win over Portugal and both goals in a 2-1 victory over the Netherlands.

A tie would also secure first place in the group.

Germany has been impressive, but Denmark has a win over the Netherlands to its credit, 1-0, in the first group game. The Danes then lost to Portugal, 3-2, on late goal in the second group match.

Although it seems improbable, Denmark and Portugal, with a win over the Dutch, could jump Germany on the final day of group play. Even the Netherlands, which has no points from two matches, could advance.

Should Germany beat Denmark and the Netherlands defeat Portugal by two goals - the Dutch would advance with the Germans.

Denmark will have its work cut out for it against the Germans as winger Dennis Rommedahl is likely to be out with a muscle injury. Midfielder Niki Zimling is also a doubt with a muscle injury, and captain Daniel Agger has a knock and is a question mark as well.

"I think it will be difficult for injured players ... Zimling, Rommedahl and Agger to be back on Sunday," Danish coach Morten Olsen said, "but we'll see."

Denmark got a pair of goals from Nicklas Bendtner against Portugal and he will be under even more pressure to score against the Germans. Germany allowed just one goal in its first two matches, to Dutch striker Robin van Persie.

The Danes could advance with a draw, should the Netherlands beat Portugal, but the easiest scenario is to pull off an upset against the Germans. That will be enough to secure a knockout berth.

But that is something Bendtner admitted would not be easy.

"Germany have proven themselves worthy as favorites for the tournament," said Bendtner. "They've started off with two wins against really strong teams. When we came into the tournament, we were underdogs. That's not a role we can lay claim to now.

"We have to step up and prove ourselves."