Germany's Joachim Low hails "illusionists" Italy

Germany coach Joachim Low believes that his side's friendly international against Italy in Milan on Friday will be good for their preparations for the 2014 World Cup finals.

The Germans qualified for next summer's tournament in Brazil as Group C winners in the European zone, while the Azzurri emerged triumphant in Group B.

"There are no better opponents than Italy for a November friendly," he told reporters.

"They come as a wolf in sheep's clothing as you never know what to expect from this team. They can adjust their game like no other team in the world, they are illusionists."

Germany suffered a 2-1 defeat to Italy in the semi-finals of Euro 2012.