Europe » Euro 2008

Charisteas Eying European Championship Number Two

Greece forward Angelos Charisteas has called on his team-mates to prove to the rest of the world that they deserve to be European Champions having won the competition in 2004.

Jun 8, 2008 12:01:30 AM

Angelos Charisteas - Greece

Against all odds, Greece saw off the likes of France and Portugal as they marched through the knock-out stages to secure their first ever European Championship in Lisbon.

The winning goal was struck by Charisteas himself and the 28-year old is now eying a second Henri Delauney trophy.

Firstly, however, Otto Rehhagel’s side must progress through a difficult-looking group containing Russia, Sweden and Spain, though the FC Nuremburg striker is confident that the side can match their achievements of four years ago.

"I am very happy to compete again in such a great tournament with Greece," he said.

"We are all excited to be at UEFA EURO 2008™, this time as champions.

“We must now give our best on the pitch and prove that we deserved to become champions."

Having fired three goals in Portugal during the last European Championship, Charisteas is keen to open his tally against Sweden on Tuesday, though he would settle for three points.

"I really want to score a goal against Sweden, but what's more important is to win the game," he added.

"If things go our way, then we can build on that and move to the second match and then the third match, just like we did in 2004.

“Take one match at a time and progress with caution and determination."

A key factor in any aspirations the nation’s players hold is the presence of Rehhagel once again and Charisteas was keen to stress the adulation the coach enjoys.

"Otto Rehhagel is loved by every Greek," he concluded.

"He helped Greece gain fame and respect in the footballing world. That alone is testament to what he means to us."

William Wood

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