Rehhagel calls on Greece to play ‘beyond limits’

GREECE coach Otto Rehhagel has urged his players to play “beyond their limits” if they want to claim a place in the 2010 World Cup by defeating Ukraine in their two-legged play-off.

The 2004 European Champions host Alexei Mikhailichenko’s team at the Olympic Stadium in Athens today before travelling to Donetsk for the return four days later with a place in South Africa at stake.

“We have to be disciplined and be fully concentrated,” said the 71-year-old German, who, despite some key absences, is happy with the mood in his camp.

“I have confidence in all my squad. I believe always that which I see and I’m glad my players are showing self-confidence. But we will see how we will play when the time comes.

“They have to go out on the pitch, show their skills and play beyond their limits.”

The portents, however, appear to favour an improved Ukraine team who secured their play-off berth ahead of Croatia thanks to 6-0 win over Andorra in their final Group Six match.

It was Ukraine who were chiefly responsible for Greece’s failure to reach the last World Cup after they won in Athens to qualify ahead of the Greeks. The Ukrainians also have a rejuvenated Andrei Shevchenko, who netted six goals during the group campaign, among their ranks.

Ukraine boss Mikhailichenko said his side would not be trying to play for a draw in the first leg.

“We are going to Greece with the target of winning; for us there is no difference between home and away matches,” he said.