Greece: World Cup team profile
Greeks haven't threatened since magical Euro 2004 run
World Cup participants rather than contenders. Ten years after the glory of Euro 2004, Greece has never subsequently threatened to repeat at any major tournament. An aging squad, which failed to fire at South Africa 2010, is unlikely to have a significant impact in Brazil.
The Star
Konstantinos Mitroglou. A breath of fresh air in a team not noted for its offensive prowess. At age 26 the Fulham striker is close to the peak of his powers, and his five qualifying goals -- including three in the playoff against Romania -- offers tangible hope Greece could survive the group stages.
Fast Facts
- World Cup Group: C
- Nickname: Ethniki (National)
- Manager: Fernando Santos
- Captain: Giorgos Karagounis
- FIFA World Ranking: 12
- Best World Cup Result: Group stage, 1994 & 2010
- Qualification Method: Beat Romania 4-2 on aggregate in European qualifying playoff
Road to Rio
Efficient without being overly exciting. In addition to Mitroglou’s goals, the Greeks’ stingy defence warrants an honourable mention. They conceded just four goals in 10 games and played with confidence to beat Romania 4-2 on aggregate in the winner-take-all playoff.
How they Fared in 2010
Fell at the first hurdle. Greece lost its opening group game to South Korea 2-0, before earning its first ever World Cup win, coming from behind to beat Nigeria 2-1. It was a brief highlight as the Greeks bowed out after losing their final game to Argentina 2-0.
Fixtures
Group C
- Saturday 14 June -- Colombia vs. Greece, Noon ET
- Thursday 19 June -- Japan vs. Greece, 6 p.m. ET
- Tuesday 24 June -- Greece vs. Ivory Coast, 4 p.m. ET
Outlook
Don’t expect too much and you won’t be disappointed. Greece has built a reputation of being difficult to beat but, with the exception of Euro 2004, has never played a starring role. The defence is solid, but will it hold up against a better class of opponent in Brazil? If so, the Greeks could advance to the knockout stages for the first time ever.