The 2004 UEFA European Championship final between Portugal and Greece is etched in football history as one of the biggest upsets of all time. Greece, a team no one expected to make it past the group stage, defied all odds to defeat the host nation, Portugal, in their own backyard. A significant part of what made this final so captivating were the players on the pitch, the strategies employed, and the sheer determination displayed. Let's dive deep into the starting lineups of both teams, dissecting the key players and formations that contributed to this unforgettable match. Understanding the nuances of each team’s selection provides a clearer picture of the tactical battle that unfolded, leading to Greece's stunning victory.

Portugal's Lineup: A Galaxy of Stars

Portugal, managed by Luiz Felipe Scolari, entered the tournament as strong favorites, boasting a squad filled with world-class talent. Their lineup was a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging stars, creating a team that was expected to dominate. Here's a closer look at the players who started the final:

• Goalkeeper: Ricardo
• Defense: Paulo Ferreira, Ricardo Carvalho, Jorge Andrade, Nuno Valente
• Midfield: Costinha, Maniche, Luis Figo, Deco, Cristiano Ronaldo
• Forward: Pauleta

Key Players for Portugal

• Luis Figo: A Ballon d'Or winner and one of the most recognizable faces in Portuguese football, Figo brought experience and exceptional dribbling skills to the team. His ability to take on defenders and deliver pinpoint crosses was crucial to Portugal's attacking strategy. Figo’s presence on the field was a constant threat, keeping the Greek defense on high alert throughout the match.

• Deco: The Brazilian-born playmaker was the creative hub of the Portuguese midfield. His vision, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game made him a vital component of Scolari’s tactical setup. Deco's performance was often the barometer of Portugal's overall play, and his influence in the final was highly anticipated.

• Cristiano Ronaldo: A young and explosive talent, Cristiano Ronaldo was just beginning to make his mark on the world stage. His pace, trickery, and eye for goal made him a dangerous threat on the wing. Even at a young age, Ronaldo's confidence and skill were evident, and he was expected to play a significant role in Portugal's attack. The final against Greece was a major opportunity for him to showcase his potential on the biggest stage.

• Ricardo Carvalho: At the heart of the defense, Ricardo Carvalho provided stability and leadership. His partnership with Jorge Andrade was crucial in keeping the Portuguese backline organized and resilient. Carvalho's ability to read the game and make timely interceptions was essential in thwarting opposition attacks.

Portugal's Formation and Tactical Approach

Portugal typically played in a 4-3-3 formation, which allowed them to maximize their attacking potential while maintaining a solid defensive structure. The midfield trio of Costinha, Maniche, and Deco provided a balance of steel and creativity, while the front three of Figo, Pauleta, and Ronaldo aimed to stretch the Greek defense and exploit any weaknesses. Scolari’s tactical approach focused on dominating possession and creating scoring opportunities through intricate passing movements and individual brilliance. The full-backs, Paulo Ferreira and Nuno Valente, were also expected to contribute to the attack, providing width and delivering crosses into the box. Despite their star-studded lineup and tactical plan, Portugal struggled to break down Greece’s disciplined defense, ultimately falling short of expectations in the final.

Greece's Lineup: The Unlikely Heroes

Greece, coached by Otto Rehhagel, defied all expectations to reach the final. Their success was built on a solid defense, tactical discipline, and a never-say-die attitude. The Greek lineup was composed of hardworking players who executed Rehhagel’s game plan to perfection. Here’s a look at the starting eleven that took the field against Portugal:

• Goalkeeper: Antonis Nikopolidis
• Defense: Giourkas Seitaridis, Traianos Dellas, Michalis Kapsis, Takis Fyssas
• Midfield: Kostas Katsouranis, Angelos Basinas, Theodoros Zagorakis
• Forwards: Angelos Charisteas, Zisis Vryzas, Stelios Giannakopoulos

Key Players for Greece

• Theodoros Zagorakis: The captain and heartbeat of the Greek team, Zagorakis provided leadership, energy, and tactical awareness in midfield. His tireless work rate and ability to win crucial tackles were vital to Greece's defensive solidity. Zagorakis’s influence extended beyond his defensive duties; he also played a key role in transitioning the ball from defense to attack, often initiating counter-attacks with incisive passes.

• Traianos Dellas: The towering center-back was a rock in the Greek defense, known for his aerial prowess and ability to organize the backline. Dellas's partnership with Michalis Kapsis formed a formidable barrier that was difficult for opposing attackers to penetrate. His crucial goal-line clearance in the semi-final against the Czech Republic further cemented his status as a defensive stalwart.

• Antonis Nikopolidis: The experienced goalkeeper provided a safe pair of hands and a calming presence in the Greek goal. His shot-stopping ability and command of his area were essential in preserving Greece's narrow leads throughout the tournament. Nikopolidis’s reliability between the posts gave his teammates confidence and contributed to the team’s overall defensive strength.

• Angelos Charisteas: The unlikely hero of the final, Charisteas scored the winning goal with a towering header. His physicality, work rate, and ability to find space in the box made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Charisteas’s goal not only secured the victory for Greece but also immortalized him in Greek football history.

Greece's Formation and Tactical Approach

Greece adopted a highly defensive 4-5-1 formation, prioritizing compactness and discipline. Rehhagel’s strategy was built on frustrating the opposition, minimizing their scoring opportunities, and capitalizing on set-pieces and counter-attacks. The five-man midfield worked tirelessly to shield the defense and deny the Portuguese attackers space to operate. The lone striker, typically Zisis Vryzas or Angelos Charisteas, was tasked with holding up the ball and bringing teammates into play. Greece's tactical approach was pragmatic and effective, stifling Portugal's creativity and exploiting their defensive vulnerabilities. The Greek players executed Rehhagel’s game plan with unwavering commitment, showcasing their mental fortitude and tactical understanding.

Tactical Showdown: Portugal's Attack vs. Greece's Defense

The final was a classic encounter between Portugal's attacking flair and Greece's defensive resilience. Portugal dominated possession and created numerous scoring opportunities, but they struggled to break down Greece's well-organized defense. The Greek players were disciplined in their positioning, denying space and closing down passing lanes. Portugal's star players, such as Figo and Ronaldo, were often double-teamed, limiting their effectiveness. Greece's ability to win aerial duels and clear their lines under pressure was also crucial in thwarting Portugal's attacks. The midfield battle was intense, with Zagorakis and his teammates working tirelessly to disrupt Portugal's flow and win back possession.

Key Moments and Turning Points

The decisive moment of the match came in the 57th minute when Angelos Charisteas headed home a corner kick, giving Greece a 1-0 lead. The goal was a testament to Greece's effectiveness from set-pieces and their ability to capitalize on limited opportunities. Portugal responded by throwing everything they had at the Greek defense, but they were unable to find a breakthrough. Greece's goalkeeper, Antonis Nikopolidis, made several crucial saves to preserve his team's lead, while the defenders threw their bodies on the line to block shots and clear crosses. As the final whistle blew, the Greek players erupted in jubilation, celebrating one of the most improbable victories in football history.

The Aftermath: Legacy and Lessons Learned

Greece's triumph at Euro 2004 remains one of the biggest shocks in football history. Their victory defied conventional wisdom and proved that a well-organized and disciplined team can overcome even the most talented opponents. The Greek team's success was a testament to their tactical acumen, mental strength, and unwavering belief in their coach's game plan. For Portugal, the defeat was a bitter disappointment, especially considering they were playing on home soil and had a squad filled with world-class players. The loss served as a valuable lesson, highlighting the importance of tactical flexibility and the need to adapt to different opponents. The Euro 2004 final will forever be remembered as a David-versus-Goliath story, showcasing the unpredictable nature of football and the enduring power of teamwork and determination.