Per Mertesacker sets sights on halting Cristiano Ronaldo

Germany and Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker believes that his national side have enough quality to stop Cristiano Ronaldo from dominating their opening clash at Euro 2012.

The Germans go up against Portugal in their first group match on Saturday, and the Gunners centre-back believes that all eyes will be on the Real Madrid "master".

"I think we have managed to nip in the bud any of Ronaldo's efforts in past matches against Portugal," said Mertesacker.

"We must try at all costs to avoid one-on-one situations with him, because Ronaldo is fast as lightning and he is the master of football trickery."

Germany will also face the Netherlands and Denmark in the group stage.