Rehhagel happy as underdog

Greece coach Otto Rehhagel has described the Czech Republic as the “absolute favourites” ahead of Thursday’s UEFA EURO 2004™ semi-final encounter at Porto’s Estádio do Dragão.

Riding high
The Greeks are riding high after eliminating holders France in Friday’s quarter-final in Lisbon but Rehhagel knows the match against the free-scoring Czech Republic will be just as difficult, if not more so.

Few chances
However, the Greeks have thrived on their underdog tag so far and Rehhagel insisted he was keen his charges retained that status. "The Czechs are the absolute favourites," he said after today's training session. "They have exceptional players and are well educated in football. We will make use of the few chances that come our way."

Master tactician
The 63-year-old has been hailed a master tactician and the match against the Czechs will be another challenge for his tactical skills. “We have to develop a strategy that will lead us to success,” Rehhagel added.

Vryzas hopes
The undefeated Czech Republic’s impressive tournament record of four wins in as many matches has not gone unnoticed by Greece striker Zisis Vryzas. "The teams left in the tournament are the best teams," he said. "The Czechs are currently probably the best of them all. But we have a right to hope."

'Not invincible'
Greece, however, have their own achievements to fall back on and striker Angelos Charisteas believes they can reach the final. "The Czech Republic are the favourites but not invincible," he said.