Germany captain Michael Ballack has told his team-mates they have nothing to fear from Argentina in Friday's World Cup quarter-final in Berlin.

Argentina received widespread acclaim for their performances in the group stage and, despite experiencing a scare in the second round against Mexico, will start the match as slight favourites.

However, the hosts have silenced their critics with some exciting displays on the way to the last eight and Ballack sees no reason why they cannot improve on the 2-2 draws they recorded against the Albicelestes in a friendly and in the Confederations Cup last year.

"We are not afraid, even though the opponent is Argentina and besides Brazil have been the best team in this tournament," said the Chelsea midfielder.

"But after our most recent performances we do not need to hide ourselves. The team is in very confident mood and we know we have a big chance to defeat them.

"We played well against them (in 2005).

"We entered the matches as underdogs, which will not be the same tomorrow, but playing well does not suffice this time out. We want to reach the next round.

"We have the hunger to play three more matches and that is why our chances are 60-40. We are not worried."