MATCH 01 REPORT : GREECE SPOIL HOSTS' PARTY

Goals from Georgios Karagounis and Angelos Basinas gave Greece a deserved victory and provided a massive setback to Portugal's hopes of winning UEFA EURO 2004™ on home soil, despite Cristiano Ronaldo's late consolation.

Assured display
It was the first time the hosts had lost the opening match of a UEFA European Championship, but in truth it was a disappointing display from Portugal, who gave away possession far too easily. Greece, on the other hand, played with great freedom and assurance, none more so than Angelos Charisteas.

Nikolaidis in reserve
With Luiz Felipe Scolari having unexpectedly announced the Portugal lineup on the eve of the game, Maniche starting in midfield alongside Costinha on the FC Porto pair's club ground, the main speculation surrounded the fitness of Greece's No1 striker, Themistoklis Nikolaidis, who began on the bench.

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