Germany striker Lukas Podolski is hoping that Poland win their remaining few games in the tournament. Podolski hails originally from Poland, and his two goals gave Germany a 2-0 victory. The Bayern front man is now turning his attentions to victory over Croatia.

"I expect a good performance and our victory,'' Podolski said in an interview posted on the German football federation's Web site.

"It would be super if the circumstances were such that we qualify for the quarterfinals. I am keeping my fingers crossed for Poland and that they also reach the quarters. With a win against Croatia, we could help them a little.

"I didn't celebrate very much because I was born in Poland, I have a big family there, and you have to have some respect for the land."