Greece star player: Georgios Samaras
What’s the mood in the Greek camp?
Everyone is proud that we’re in the finals again and that we have a chance to defend our title. We were the first team to qualify and we won most points, which I think shows what a good TEAM, with capital letters, we are. The team spirit is very strong.
How important has Otto Rehhagel been?
Mr Rehhagel has brought organisation and discipline but I think it is also down to the chemistry between him and the players. Sometimes, even good coaches fail to get the players to listen to them. That is not the case with us. We have a new generation since 2004; there are only about 10 players left from four years ago. But the atmosphere and style of play are the same.
How much has that continuity helped your cause?
It’s quite unusual to have had the same coach for so long, especially for Greece. That’s been important for us – we know exactly what the coach wants of us, which makes life a lot easier.
What are the team’s main strengths?
We never give up. I can’t remember one game in which our heads have dropped. But I’m not going to tell you too much more about how we play as the opposition might be reading this!
Greece were complete outsiders at Euro 2004. But that’s not the case now, is it?
The only people who thought we had any chance four years ago were some of the players. Back home, it would have been considered a success if we had won just one game. Now, the expectation levels are different. To win the title again would be very difficult, but you never know. We are not going there with crazy dreams but we are not going there for fun either.
What do you make of the other teams in your group?
Spain are the favourites even though they have never done well in the big tournaments. They have some great players, a great squad. Russia have made big improvements in recent years under Guus Hiddink. I think they are now finding what they have been missing over the years. They have really good players and I think in the next few years they will become a big power in European football. Sweden are very organised and know exactly what they want. They always qualify for the Euros or the World Cup and have a winning mentality.
Do you think you will get out of the group?
It’s a tough group but I think we have a good chance. We have the mentality and physical strength to handle three games in a week. And I think there will be a lot more Greeks going to support us [than in Portugal in 2004] as it’s closer to home. The most important game is the first one, against Sweden. If we can win it then we have a good chance to get to the
last eight.
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