Greece lay claim to Rehhagel
Monday, June 28, 2004
Article summary
Greece's surprise run to the semi-finals of UEFA EURO 2004™ under the guidance of Otto Rehhagel has prompted calls to make the German coach a Greek citizen.
Article body
'Greek soul'
The proposal came from Greece's public order minister, Georgios Voulgarakis, who told the state-run NET TV station on Sunday that Rehhagel deserves the accolade. "I propose we make him a Greek, because he has a Greek soul," Voulgarakis said. "He has done very good work. If he wants to become Greek, he will."
Holders ousted
Greece, who had never won a match in a major finals before EURO 2004™, caused the biggest upset of the competition when they knocked out holders France in the quarter-finals, having first beaten hosts Portugal and held Spain to a draw in the group stage. In Greece, thousands have taken to the streets to celebrate and Rehhagel has become the toast of the country.
Olympic inspiration
The football team's remarkable run is also having an impact on other team sports. Olympic basketball team coach Panagiotis Yiannakis believes the achievements in Portugal will inspire his men for the Olympic Games, which will be staged in Athens in August. "The football success has made us all proud and gives us extra motivation," he said.
