GRE 0-2 ARG: Greeks Out

June 26th, 2010 | by: Nick |

As we all know Greece have bowed out of this World Cup after the 0-2 loss to Argentina. There are mixed emotions coming from this defeat and the direction of the national team. Part of me believes this World Cup was an acceptable performance. When looking back to USA ‘94, the main goal was to score some goals and win a game. The other part of me believes that the performance was horrible. I know its kind of late but I feel bad not to provide my view on the match.

Greece
Greece started the game very well. Samaras had some very good chances the first half. But Argentina went on the defensive and contained the Greek attack. The tactical line up was did not function well enough in attack especially when goals were a necessity in this game. I think that Greece’s weakness was the midfield, especially when it came to shielding the back four. Rehhagel’s tactic of putting center back Moras as a defensive midfielder backfired as he tracked back too far creating a gap the Argentine attackers to operate. Rehhagel should have fielded a proper defensive midfielder in front of the back four maybe, Tziolis, Katsuranis, or Patsatzoglou. I also think Ninis was worthy of a starting spot, possibly on either wing. Up front, Samaras did his best but he did not have much support. He definitely needed a partner or a second striker right behind him in order to create chances.

Argentina
Overall Argentina, played very well on all fronts. Their defense was very good in containing the Greek attack. They played a 4-3-3 formation with excellent fluidity to bring the ball forward which resulted in their domination of the game.

What next?
Since Rehaggel has now resigned, the Greek Football Federation will be on the hunt for a new manager. Parts of the media have labeled Fernando Santos and Giovanni Trappattoni as potential candidates for the position. One thing is clear, whoever the next manager of Greece will be, new talent needs to be injected into the squad.