When Greece lifted the UEFA European Championship trophy in 2004, defeating hosts Portugal in the final, they not only clinched their first major tournament win but also set a historical benchmark for underdog victories in the annals of football. This stunning upset has since served as a measure for shock results in subsequent EURO tournaments, reminding all that in football, the unexpected can and does happen. This article explores the impact of Greece’s 2004 victory, its implications for future tournaments, and how it has reshaped expectations and strategies in international football.
The Setting of 2004
In 2004, Greece arrived at the EURO tournament under the guidance of German coach Otto Rehhagel. Known for their disciplined defensive strategy, Greece was not considered a serious contender by pundits and fans alike. Their group consisted of Spain, Portugal, and Russia, all formidable teams with far more illustrious football histories. However, Greece’s performance soon began to turn heads as they advanced past the group stage, knocked out France in the quarterfinals, and defeated the Czech Republic in the semifinals.
The Final Against Portugal
The final on July 4, 2004, in Lisbon, was a rematch of the opening game of the tournament, which Greece had also won, setting the stage for an intriguing battle. Portugal, led by Luiz Felipe Scolari and featuring stars like Luís Figo and Cristiano Ronaldo, were the favorites, playing on home soil with fervent support. Yet, Greece executed a tactical masterclass. They scored through a header by Angelos Charisteas in the 57th minute and defended resolutely to hold onto a 1-0 win.
Impact and Legacy
Encouragement for Underdogs
Greece’s victory became a tale of hope for underdog teams entering international tournaments. It demonstrated that with the right preparation, determination, and team spirit, lesser-known teams could prevail against footballing giants. This win has been cited as an inspiration by numerous players and coaches from smaller football nations.
Tactical Innovations:
Greece’s success in 2004 was built on a solid defensive foundation. Otto Rehhagel’s strategy emphasized team cohesion, disciplined defending, and capitalizing on set-piece opportunities. Following Greece’s win, there was a noticeable shift in how smaller teams approached tournaments. More emphasis was placed on tactical discipline and defensive solidity, knowing that one goal can sometimes be enough to secure victory in tightly contested matches.
Redefining Success in Football:
The win redefined notions of success and power in European football. It proved that financial clout and star players might give an edge, but they do not guarantee success. This changed how teams perceived their chances in big tournaments, shifting focus towards tactical innovation, mental toughness, and collective performance.
Subsequent Shocks in EURO History
Greece’s win set the precedent for other surprising results in later years:
- Iceland at EURO 2016: Iceland, in their first-ever EURO appearance, famously knocked out England in the Round of 16, underlining that the spirit of Greece’s 2004 campaign was still alive in the tournament.
- Wales at EURO 2016: Wales, led by Chris Coleman, reached the semi-finals, defeating Belgium in the quarter-finals. This run was reminiscent of Greece’s own fairy-tale journey, emphasizing team over individual star power.
- Italy at EURO 2020: Italy’s win in 2020, while not an underdog story, was unexpected due to their previous failures to qualify for the 2018 World Cup. Their resurgence under Roberto Mancini echoed Greece’s story of tactical discipline and unity.
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