When the word Euro 2004 comes up, most football fans immediately think of one team – Greece. The outsider, whom almost nobody took seriously, did something that many fans and journalists thought was impossible. Under German coach Otto Rehhagel, the Greeks became unexpected European champions and shocked the world. How did they manage to do it all ?
An outsider’s journey to the top
Greece was not considered a potential winner before the tournament. They have only made it to a major tournament twice before in their history, but without much success. When they qualified for Euro 2004, few expected that they could ever advance out of the group. However, in the opening game of the tournament, the first surprise came as Greece beat home side Portugal 2-1, indicating that they are not to be underestimated. In the second match, they drew with Spain (1-1) and despite losing to Russia (1-2) they made it through to the quarter-finals. There their fairytale journey began.
Journey through the knockout phase
Quarter-final: Greece – France 1:0
The defending champions and a team full of stars like Zidane, Henry and Vieira were huge favourites. But the Greeks shocked the world again when their defensive tactics proved extremely effective. Angelos Charisteas scored with a header after a corner and the Greeks sensationally knocked out the French.
Semi-final: Greece – Czech Republic 1:0 after extra time
The Czechs with Nedved, Rosicky and Baros played a fantastic tournament and were seen by many as the new European champions. But it was Traianos Dellas who decided Greece’s progress in extra time – his header following a corner in the last seconds of the first half of extra time spelled the end of the Czech team’s tournament.
Final: Greece – Portugal 1:0
The Greeks met Portugal again in the final, this time facing players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Deco, Figo and Rui Costa. But the scenario was the same – the Greeks defended with incredible discipline and Angel Charisteas scored from the only corner of the game. This goal made history – Greece became European champions !
The tactic that shocked Europe
The key to success was the defensive style of play, which Otto Rehhagel orchestrated perfectly. The Greeks played in an organised manner, used their physical strength and were exceptional in standard situations. Although their style was not eye-catching, it was extremely effective.
Their 4-4-2 system was based on consistent defense, low block and exploiting counter attacks. Every player knew exactly his role and the team cohesion was tremendous.
Heritage of Greece 2004
Greece’s victory at the 2004 UEFA EURO is one of the greatest football sensations of all time. Their triumph proved that football is not just about individual stars, but above all about teamwork, discipline and tactics.
Although Greece will never achieve the same success again, this tournament will remain forever etched in the history of football. It was the story of the underdog who became the king of Europe – and it is stories like this that make football beautiful.
