 |
Greece Fail to Halt Spain's 100% Euro 2008 Record | Help spread the word: Share on Facebook 
|
David Smeathers reflects on Spain's continuing good form to defeat luckless Greeks in their final group game. Italy await in the Quarter Finals whilst defending Greece failed to banish the demons of their failed championship defence.Greece went into their final Euro 2008 fixture looking to banish a few demons before flying home. Spain went into the game looking to carry on their impressive winning run yet made 10 changes from the side that beat Sweden previously. Otto Rehhagel was aiming to avoid finishing as the only side without scoring a goal, miss out on any points and prevent a 3 game losing streak. Probably just as importantly Rehhagel was looking for a spirited and gutsy performance to eclipse the disappointing matches that preceded their Spanish encounter. Greece looked a lot stronger throughout the opening stages as Spain’s second string squad struggled to get into a rhythm. The first 10 minutes followed the same pattern as their first two group games as Greece grafted to create some chances but failed to break down a determined defence. Spain too struggled to make any room for openings and it wasn’t until Alonso fired in an impressive effort from his own half that the game sprung into life. Charisteas notched his and his countries first of the tournament with a powerful header from a Karagounis free kick. Charisteas stole away from his marker to plant his header to Reina’s right and send the Greek fans into the raptures. The goal galvanised Greece further who then continued to press and looked to improve on their lead before the break. Spain levelled matters in the 62nd minute through a wonderful strike from Rueben De La Red. De La Red met the ball from 16 yards which moved at such a pace that even a strong hand from Nikopolidis couldn’t keep the ball out. Spain continued their late goal scoring form with a deadly winner 5 minutes from time as Daniel Guiza grabbed their deserved winner. Sergio Garcia’s cross found Guiza in a good position to head home to score his first ever international goal. Greece exited Euro 2008 with some dignity still intact with a gutsy performance that they could have used putting in on match day one. Rehhagel was proud of his side’s efforts in this game at least and leaves the tournament wondering what might have been had his tactics been better in the opening game against Sweden. David Smeathers Click to view author David Smeathers's profile Fancy writing for LiveFootball? Click here to find out more. |