The 2004 UEFA European Championship, hosted by Portugal, was a tournament that defied expectations and delivered one of the greatest underdog stories in football history. Held from June 12 to July 4, the competition saw Greece, a team few had predicted to make an impact, rise to the pinnacle of European football.
Portugal as the Host Nation
Portugal, hosting its first major international tournament, provided a vibrant and passionate backdrop for Euro 2004. Matches were held in ten cities, including Lisbon, Porto, and Faro, with the final played at the Estádio da Luz in Lisbon. The tournament showcased Portugal’s love for football, with enthusiastic crowds and a festive atmosphere throughout.
Key Moments and Matches
Euro 2004 featured numerous surprises and dramatic moments:
- Greece’s Defensive Masterclass: Greece, under the tactical guidance of German coach Otto Rehhagel, employed a disciplined and defensive approach that neutralized some of Europe’s strongest teams.
- Portugal’s Bright Start: The host nation, led by young Cristiano Ronaldo and experienced players like Luis Figo, impressed fans with their attacking football, reaching the final after a thrilling 2-1 semi-final victory over the Netherlands.
- England vs. France Drama: A group stage clash between England and France saw Zinedine Zidane score two late goals, including a penalty, to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory for France.
- Czech Republic’s Flair: The Czech Republic, led by players like Pavel Nedvěd and Milan Baroš, played some of the tournament’s most exciting football, reaching the semi-finals before being eliminated by Greece.
The Final: Greece vs. Portugal
The final was a rematch of the tournament’s opening game, in which Greece had shocked Portugal with a 2-1 victory. In the final, Greece once again upset the hosts with a stunning 1-0 win. Angelos Charisteas scored the decisive goal with a header from a corner, cementing Greece’s place in football history.
Greece’s disciplined defense and organization frustrated Portugal’s talented attackers. Despite dominating possession, Portugal could not break through Greece’s resilient backline, led by goalkeeper Antonios Nikopolidis and captain Theodoros Zagorakis, who was named Player of the Tournament.
The Legacy of Euro 2004
Euro 2004 left a lasting impact on football:
- Greece’s Underdog Story: Greece’s victory is often cited as one of the greatest upsets in football history, demonstrating the power of teamwork and strategy.
- Emergence of Ronaldo: The tournament marked the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo on the international stage, showcasing his potential to become one of the game’s greats.
- Defensive Tactics: Greece’s success highlighted the effectiveness of disciplined, defensive football, influencing tactical approaches in subsequent tournaments.
Conclusion
The 2004 UEFA European Championship was a tournament of surprises and unforgettable moments. Greece’s remarkable triumph over Europe’s footballing giants captured the imagination of fans worldwide, proving that anything is possible in football. From Portugal’s passionate hosting to Greece’s historic victory, Euro 2004 remains a cherished chapter in the history of the sport.