In-form Germany striker Miroslav Klose pities Argentina for their "bad luck" in having to play the hosts in the World Cup quarter-finals.

The 1990 World Cup finalists clash again in what could be one of the most thrilling and hard-fought matches of the whole tournament.

Backed by a euphoric home crowd, Germany have won all their first four matches - while unbeaten Argentina looked especially impressive in a 6-0 thrashing of Serbia and Montenegro.

But self-confident Klose, who has four goals to his name, insists there is no reason for his country to be nervous about Friday's match in Berlin.

"We know they are a strong team and were considered favourites to win it all," said the 28-year-old.

"But it's bad luck for them to meet us, because we want to reach the next round - and therefore we will beat them.

"If we keep them under pressure for 90 minutes they will commit mistakes - and then we will capitalise."

Germany twice drew 2-2 against Argentina in the first half of 2005.

"I could not play in both matches, so I am very happy to participate this time out," said Klose.

The Werder Bremen striker, who netted 25 goals in the last Bundesliga season, is warning his team-mates not to get carried away with their encouraging form.

"After two or three good matches, I don't think we should speculate about whether we are a force again or not," he said.

"It is important to focus on the next opponent."

Klose is full of praise for Argentina's attacking strength.

"They are very strong up front," he said.

"(Javier) Saviola is extremely quick, and (Hernan) Crespo is always a force in front of the goal. He is like (Ruud) van Nistelrooy. But I am in great shape as well and must not hide myself."

Four years ago, Klose scored a hat-trick in Germany's 8-0 rout of Saudi Arabia and followed up with two more goals in the group stages.

He has four goals to his name this time but still has to find the back of the net in the World Cup knockout stages.

"I have had a plan for the tournament, and things have gone well thus far," he said.

"I always want to reach the maximum and I am going the right way."

Germany's back-up goalkeeper Oliver Kahn has hailed Klose's overall development on and off the pitch.

"He has developed not only as a player but also as a person," said Kahn.

"Four years ago he remained very quiet and modest despite being one of the stars of the tournament. He has a strong personality with a lot of leadership skills."