Mesut Ozil has paid tribute to Germany's defence for managing to contain the "genius" of Cristiano Ronaldo in their World Cup opener on Monday.
Thomas Muller bagged a hat-trick as Germany cruised to a 4-0 win in Salvador earlier this week, with current Ballon d'Or holder Ronaldo seen cutting a disconsolate figure at times.
Ozil, who played with the Portuguese ace at Real Madrid for three years, hailed his defensive teammates for their "commendable" work in combating the 29-year-old.
"Cristiano Ronaldo had given his all for Real Madrid," the 25-year-old said in an interview with The Times of India.
"From my experiences in training sessions with him I know he is truly a genius. To be able to contain him the way we did was commendable for our defence."
Joachim Low's side continue their Group G campaign by facing Ghana tonight.
No Data Analysis info
Netherlands
Senegal
Ecuador
Qatar
England
USA
Iran
Wales
Argentina
Poland
Mexico
Saudi Arabia
France
Australia
Tunisia
Denmark
Japan
Spain
Germany
Costa Rica
Morocco
Croatia
Belgium
Canada
Brazil
Switzerland
Cameroon
Serbia
Portugal
South Korea
Uruguay
Ghana
