Germany coach Joachim Loew has been banned from the touchline for Thursday's Euro 2008 quarterfinal with Portugal after being “sent off” in its last Group B match, the German football federation (DFB) said on Wednesday. Loew was ordered to watch the second half of Germany's win over Austria on Monday from the stands after arguing with the fourth official just before halftime. Austrian counterpart Josef Hickersberger was similarly banished from the touchline. “I have to acknowledge the UEFA decision and would not like to comment on it. Naturally I'm extremely disappointed,” Loew said in a DFB statement on its website. DFB president Theo Zwanziger said: “It certainly wasn't an easy decision for UEFA and they spent a lot of time considering the issue before reaching their ruling.” Loew's assistant, Hansi Flick, will likely take charge of the team from the bench, as he did for the remainder of Monday's match. The decision further hampers Germany's preparations for the crucial match at St. Jakob Park in Basel. The three-time champion has already had one day's less rest than Portugal, which completed its group matches Sunday. “I completely share the disappointment of the sports leadership of our national team and can very well understand that our federal coach regards himself as being unjustly treated,” German football association president Theo Zwanziger said. “I am certain that it will be tied to giving the team extra motivation for the match against Portugal and that they will want to have their coach back on the bench for the European Championship semifinals.” The ban for Loew prevents him from having any contact with his players from the moment they arrive at the stadium until after the match.
