"It is special to play against Argentina - one of the best teams in the world. We go into this game full of energy and full of optimism," Klinsmann told a press conference on Thursday.

"I would not say we are overconfident but we have a lot of self-belief. From what I have seen of the other countries in this tournament, we do not need to hide from anyone," he added.

Germany silenced their critics following a fine performance in the World Cup on home soil, which saw them topping Group A before beating Sweden 2-0 in the second round.

The Mannschaft have also kept three consecutive clean sheets on their way to the last eight.

"We are ready for an almighty fight - and to win it. We will go into the match full of aggression and passion and then we will see how Argentina respond," Klinsmann said.

On the other hand, Argentina coach Jose Pekerman said he has the utmost respect for the hosts and their boss Klinsmann.

"I want to emphasise that we are very happy here in Germany, enjoying the World Cup, and that puts us in a position of respect towards our hosts," he said.

"Germany have done very good things in the Klinsmann period, a renewal with many new players, an attacking style that is producing great matches for them.

"This has to be said, and the same for Argentina, who always go out to play. The truth will be revealed on the pitch," he added.