In Greece, every July 4th conjures up images of other celebrations and fond memories, as the date is now etched in the world’s football annals for the national team’s 1-0 victory over Portugal in the final of the 2004 Euro.
The “golden page” in Greek football was written in the sold-out Estádio da Luz of Lisbon, playing against the hosts of the tournament.
The game’s only goal, scored by Angelos Charisteas with a header in the 56th minute after a corner taken by Angelos Basinas, was enough for the team to be crowned European champions – a development that led to frenzied celebrations in Greece and by ethnic Greek communities around the world.
The team coached by Otto Rehhagel had arrived for the Euro 2004 as a complete outsider only to pull out one of the greatest surprises in global team sports.
