Loew glad to see Germany keeping WC form

Germany coach Joachim Loew lauded his players for having "internalized" the fast-paced, flowing style of play that earned them praise during the World Cup, and expects to see more of it in their European Championship qualifier against Azerbaijan on Tuesday.

Germany struggled at times during its opening 1-0 win over Belgium on Friday, but the winning goal came after the kind of quick-passing attacking move that was the team's trademark in South Africa.

"The team had a well-rehearsed confidence that was visible predominantly in the second half, where the game was well under control," Loew said.

The World cup semifinalist should have little difficulty against Azerbaijan at home in Cologne in Group A, but Loew warned against underestimating the team led by former Germany coach Berti Vogts.

"Such teams have to be taken seriously," Loew said. "Azerbaijan knows how to defend."

Germany displayed its own defensive strength in the second half against Belgium, which had pressured Loew's team early on but was shut down by the German defense following a goal by veteran Miroslav Klose.

"In the past months, the team has largely internalized a basic concept and style of play," Loew said. At the same time he acknowledged that some players have not yet fully recovered from the quick turnaround between the tournament in South Africa and the return to regular club play.

Loew said his lineup would remain the same as the squad that faced Belgium, except for Marcell Jansen who sustained a knee injury during the game. Hamburg defender Heiko Westermann is expected to start instead.

Germany and Azerbaijan met twice in qualifiers for the World Cup, with the Germans winning 2-0 in Baku and 4-0 in Hannover.