Germany coach Joachim Loew is confident his maturing squad can overcome Steve Staunton's men in Stuttgart in their opening Euro 2008 qualifying match tonight.
After taking third place in the World Cup, the German fans will be looking for nothing less than victory over the Irish at the Gottlieb-Daimler-Stadion.
"Yes, we played well at the World Cup, made a name for ourselves and presented ourselves positively, but we failed in reaching our ultimate goal which was to win it.
"So now we need a new source of motivation, to instil a new euphoria in our players, and not live on the old one.
"That said, I have every confidence in the team. They know full well what is at stake tonight, and for the remaining qualifying games.
"First of all we aim to get through qualifying and then play an important role at Euro 2008.
"It's only natural for us to aim high and try to win Euro 2008, but it is a step-by-step process."
Loew is wary of a potential backlash from the Republic in the wake of their 4-0 friendly defeat to Holland 17 days ago.
"We know Ireland have problems," added Loew. "We watched the Dutch game and they came under fire from many quarters, so they will have to reassert themselves in this game.
"We know they will be ready to fight, be physical from the word go and defend with all their might."
Loew remains without defenders Christoph Metzelder, Per Mertesacker, Robert Huth and Jens Nowotny through injury. Hertha Berlin centre-back Arne Friedrich is available after shaking off a stomach bug.