Greece coach: Otto Rehhagel
The 69-year-old German made his name during a 14-year spell at Werder Bremen (1981-1995), where he was nicknamed Otto II after a string of runners-up performances.
However, he did also lead them to two Bundesliga titles. Spent a frustrating season at Bayern Munich (1995-96), who sacked him just before the team won the UEFA Cup.
Rebuilt his reputation at Kaiserslautern as they became the first promoted team to win the Bundesliga, in 1998.
But Greece’s against-the-odds victory at Euro 2004, built upon graft and tough defence, is his greatest achievement. Rehhagel recently extended his Greece contract until 2010.
What’s your opinion of your group?
I would describe it as closely matched, a group that will be decided by the smallest of details and where the smoke may clear only at the end of the three rounds. Spain are one of the favourites to win the title but they were in 2004 as well and we know what happened then. Sweden are a well-organised side and in Ibrahimovic they have one of the best strikers in the world.
I have a lot of respect for Russia and their coach, Guus Hiddink. They are clearly moving in the right direction. Look at Zenit in the UEFA Cup this season.
What would constitute a good tournament for you?
As title holders we have a responsibility to give a good account of ourselves, to prove to those who were stunned by our success in 2004 that it was no accident. Like every other coach here, the objective is to make the quarter-finals and then hope to keep the momentum going. It’s very important to start well. Personally, I don’t see why lightning shouldn’t strike twice. There is no law that says the champions have to give up on the thought of defending their title. If we’ve done it once, why not twice? If the players are in good physical shape and show their usual tactical maturity, teams will find it hard to beat us.
Who do you fancy to win the title?
The usual gallery of Italy, France, Spain and Germany. However, I wouldn’t rule out any of the 16 finalists. I know better than anyone that surprises are an integral part of competitions.
How encouraged were you by the qualification campaign?
Failing to reach the last World Cup was very disappointing for us. We made too many individual mistakes. Then something special happened during the Euro 2008 qualifiers. The boys developed a real hunger and enthusiasm. Apart from the setback of the home defeat to Turkey, they did their job splendidly. Their performances were the reason I decided to stay on until 2010.
Newsletter
