Underdogs cast a spell in magical year for soccer

Shels were not the only side to upset the form book in 2004, writes James Whelan.

GREECE’S extraordinary success at Euro 2004 and Porto’s victory in the Champions League final brought romanticism back to international soccer in a landmark year for the sport.

Greece’s remarkable upset in becoming European champions after starting the tournament as 80-1 outsiders did not meet with universal approval from purists unhappy with their defensive approach.