Russia v Greece: Greece stand poised on the brink of the first real surprise of this tournament, namely qualification for the quarter-finals. The Greeks require only a draw against the thus-far-disappointing Russians to be sure of their best ever result in international football.
Whatever about the shortcomings of both Portugal and Spain in Greece's first two games, there is no denying the surprising solidity, determination and grit of a side that bears all the hallmarks of German Otto Rehhagel's coaching. Greece have done little wrong so far in this tournament and only potential nervousness and inexperience would appear to stand between them and a place in the next round.
Much will depend upon the attitude of the Russians, who yet again will field a reshuffled side, with Plymouth utility player Alexei Smertin and first-choice goalkeeper Sergei Ovchinnikov both suspended and Aleksandr Mostovoi sent home.
The Russian coach will field a young side which, while lacking experience, will at least be under no pressure. Furthermore, for youngsters such as 21-year-old Aleksandr Kerzakhov and 20-year-old Dimitri Sychev in attack as well as 21-year-old Marat Izmailov, who may get a run in midfield, tomorrow night's match offers a huge stage on which to display their talent.
Rehaggel will not be able to stick to the side that has done him proud so far given that midfielders Stelios Giannakopoulos and Giorgios Karagounis are ruled out, the former by injury and the latter by suspension.
In their absence, the midfield will be driven by captain Theodoros Zagorakis and Angelos Basinas with strikers Zisis Vryzas and Angelos Haristeas confirmed in attack.
In the past (see Ireland at Germany 88) first-round surprise packets have had a habit of running out of puff and luck just when they stand poised on the brink of unexpected success. The Greek nation will be hoping this is not the case tomorrow. Should they lose to Portugal, Spain will be hoping that Russia do them a favour and beat Greece by a significant margin.
PROBABLE LINE-UPS
RUSSIA (4-4-2): Malafeyev; Yevseyev, Sharonov, Bugayev, Anyukov; Karyaka, Loskov, Alenichev, Bystrov; Kerzhakov, Sychev.
GREECE (4-4-2): Nikopolidis; Seitaridis, Kapsis, Dellas, Fyssas; Georgiadis, Katsouranis, Zagorakis, Tsartas; Vryzas, Haristeas.
Referee: G Veissiere (France)
