Greeks hail historic victory
Greece defeated Alexei Mikhailichenko’s men 1-0 at the Donbass Arena in Donetsk courtesy of Dimitris Salpigidis’ composed first-half finish, the only goal of the tie after Saturday’s 0-0 draw in Athens.
The 2004 European champions weathered the storm as Ukraine fought back, with goalkeeper Alexandros Tzorvas particularly impressive.
It is only the second time Greece have qualified for a World Cup finals, coming 16 years after their first appearance in the USA in 1994.
“This is a very important moment for Greek football. It’s fantastic,” said Charisteas, who scored the winner in the final of Euro 2004.
“We played very well throughout the game, especially in the first half. We got the lead thanks to a beautiful goal from Dimitris Salpigidis and then we held them comfortably, I thought.
“We had to defend well in the second half but we were determined and we are going to the World Cup.”
“It’s a massive success for us,” added goal hero Salpigidis, who showed great composure to slot the ball past Alexei Piatov after being played in by Celtic front man Giorgos Samaras’ sublime through-ball.
“It’s a day of celebration for Greeks all over the world. All those people who have made negative comments during these past few days now have their answer from what we have done on the pitch.”
Mikhailichenko was understandably despondent after his side’s defeat.
“I feel very disappointed and sad we lost,” he said. “There are no excuses. The boys did everything they could to try and get the win.”
UKRAINE: Pyatov, Kucher, Hacherydy, Rakytskyy, Mykhalik (Gay 66), Alyev (Seleznyov 57), Timoschtschuk, Kobin, Yarmolenko (Husyev 69), Shevchenko, Milevsky.
GREECE: Tzorvas, Moras, Vintra, Kyrgiakos, Spiropoulos, Papastathopoulos (Pliatsikas), Katsouranis, Samaras (Gekas 63), Karagounis, Salpigidis, Charisteas (Tziolis 71).
Referee: Olegario Benquerenca (POR)
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