The team
This is only the second time the Euro 2004 champions have qualified for the FIFA World Cup. Their toughest games during qualification came against Switzerland, who beat the Greeks in both legs of the tie. Greece’s line-up for 2010 boasts many experienced players. Strangely enough, their opposition in Group B group stage is reminiscent to their last World Cup in 1994, where Greece also faced Argentina and Nigeria (and lost 4-0 against both) – will they set the record straight, or will history repeat itself?
The coach
Otto Rehhagel
At 72, Otto Rehhagel is the oldest manager at this World Cup. The Greeks will be hoping that the wise old German can put his decades of experience to good use – just as he did when Greece won Euro 2004.
Player to watch
Theofanis Gekas
The most notable player in the Greek ranks is Theofanis Gekas, who scored 10 goals during qualifying, becoming the top goalscorer in the European Zone. Whether he’ll be as effective against Asian, African and South American opposition, remains to be seen.
We’re on the ball
World Cup appearances: 1
Previous best: Group stages, 1994
Odds of winning: 150/1
Strange but true: Greece have yet to score a single goal in a World Cup tournament
Fixtures: Korea Republic, June 12, 3.30pm, Port Elizabeth Nigeria, June 17, 6pm, Bloemfontein Argentina, June 22, 10.30pm, Polokwane
