LVIV: Germany defenders Philipp Lahm (pic, right) and Jerome Boateng were both delighted they were able to help keep a clean sheet as their side defeated Portugal 1-0 in their opening Group B match of Euro 2012 this morning.

"It is very important to start the tournament with a victory. It always is!" said Lahm.  "We controlled the match in the first-half, and Portugal had only one chance from Pepe."

Portugal improved after the break, with Nani's cross-shot hitting the bar and Silvestre Varela drawing a fine save from goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, and the Bayern Munich skipper credited Germany's teamwork with helping them grab the win.

"During the second-half we had problems, especially at the end. But that happens. It is all about the team. We know that and we showed that today," said the 28-year-old Lahm.

Despite enjoying a prolific season at club level, Ronaldo's impact was limited thanks in part to a fine German defensive display, and Boateng was quick to praise the efforts of his teammates.

"Everybody knows Ronaldo's class, We managed to keep him quiet as a team. The whole team worked very hard offensively and defensively," said Boateng.

Meanwhile, Portugal defender Pepe they should have amounted to more over the 90 minutes, and went on to claim that his Real Madrid teammate, Germany midfilelder Mesut Oezil, agreed with his analysis.

"In the first half, the game was very even, and we had one good chance to score. Then, we were unlucky in the second half," said Pepe.

"In fact, for Germany's goal, the cross deflected off Joao Pereira and I mistimed my challenge. It was a shame because we had good opportunities.

"We worked hard and we had more chances to score. I spoke with Oezil after the game and he said we are a great side and that the fairest result would have been a draw.

"They run out winners in a match they did not deserve to win."