GREECE MAKE IT

Despite having lesser known players, Greece managed to seal a place in the World Cup 2014, which will be held in Brazil. A lot of praise has gone to manager Fernando Santos, who has stated that Greece were able to qualify because they believed in themselves. The nation, which surprised everyone by winning the Euro 2004, are not one of the candidates to win the World Cup. However, they are expected to get past the group stages and make an appearance in the knockout phase.

They have been grouped alongside teams like Ivory Coast and Japan. They are considered as good teams, but not exceptional when compared with Greece. Hence, Santos is confident of creating an impact at the World Cup. The nation did not manage to qualify for the tournament automatically, but had to do it through the play-offs. They managed to beat Romania 4-2 in the play-offs. Despite a national level financial crisis, Santos has lauded the attitude of the fans, who have been supporting their team by travelling for most of the away matches.

As for the tournament itself, Santos says that Greece are targeting getting out of the group stages first and foremost. If they do so, this would be the first time Greece have qualified for the knockout stages.

“We’re definitely aiming to get through the group phase, which is something Greece have never achieved at the World Cup. That’s the dream. We’re aiming to get off to a winning start and also try and slightly change the image people have of Greek football. If we can do that, I think we’re in with a chance of getting through the group phase. After that, it’s about taking things one game at a time. One thing’s for sure: we’re not going to Brazil just to see the sights,” said Santos.