Michael Ballack showed Germany the way to the Euro 2004 finals and is the main reason why the triple European and world champions might shine in Portugal.

Being hampered by fitness problems did not stop the gifted playmaker from taking a vital role in the 2-1 victory over Scotland and the 3-0 defeat of Iceland that sent Germany through to the final tournament.

Ballack, Germany's Player of the Season in 2002-03 following his move from Bayer Leverkusen to Munich the previous summer, was not fully fit either at last year's World Cup but still led Germany into the final, which he then missed through suspension after sacrificing himself with a tactical foul in the semi-final.

As precious to Germany as Zinedine Zidane is to France, if not even more, Ballack plays a central role in coach Rudi Voeller's plans.

"Just him being on the pitch is important," Voeller said. "He is not only a great football player but also a true leader."

A classy playmaker with a record for scoring important goals, Ballack has been criticised for not being loud enough and not being a fighter.

Discreet he may be, but the quiet, East German-born midfielder does speak out when he feels he has to and his elegance on the pitch should not be mistaken for arrogance.

"Michael can respond to pressure and has demonstrated many times that he is a match winner," said Voeller.

The 27-year-old Ballack showed his mettle before Germany's final qualifier against Iceland last month.

He was struggling with an ankle injury and heard his Bayern Munich chairman, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, suggest it might be better if he missed the game.

"What Rummenigge says is rubbish," Ballack responded. "That match is ever so important for Germany and there's no way I'm going to stay at home."

So he played, opened the scoring, orchestrated play brilliantly throughout the game and participated in the defensive duties.

With more of the same from Ballack in Portugal, Germany could go a long way.