Santos´ Greece take heart from past glory

Fernando Santos says Greece can take inspiration from their Euro 2004 success ahead of a quarter-final clash with Germany.

Greece reached the last eight of Euro 2012 after finishing second in Group A, thanks to a dramatic 1-0 victory over Russia.

Santos’ team go into the showdown with Germany as significant underdogs, but can take heart from their predecessors unlikely triumph in Portugal eight years ago.

“I’d like to take the opportunity to say that for us the inspiration is the 2004 saga,” he told reporters.

“Although they were written off before the tournament, they managed to reach the final and win the cup.

“We would like to use this squad as a source of inspiration and try to do the same, or at least come as close as we can.

“Let us not forget, this is a knock-out game. Anything can happen in 90 minutes.”

Joachim Loew’s Germany progressed from Group B with a perfect record following wins against Portugal, Netherlands and Denmark, confirming their status as one of the tournament favourites.

Santos is aware of the dangers Germany possess, but is confident his side will give their all in an attempt to produce a shock result at PGE Arena, Gdansk.

“We’re focused on the whole style of the German team. We know the features of this squad both in defence and offence, and in the transition between the defence and offence,” Santos said.

“Let us not forget that Germany are not favourites for just this fixture, but for winning the tournament.

“But if you remember we have said that we did not come here just for a holiday. It is a game in which I’m pretty sure all the players that will participate will give 100 per cent so their team can advance to the semi-finals.

“I’m looking forward to a great game, on and off the pitch.”