Greece 0 - 1 Russia. Euro 2008

The defensive Greeks against the skillful Russians. We can't imagine the Russians managing to crack the Greek defence easily; but do the Greeks have what it takes to put the ball in the net, given they need a win (as do Russia) to progress in this competition?
WATCHSOCCER prediction: 1 - 1.

13' Pavlyuvchenko's chipped shot tipped over by Greek goalkeeper Nikolidis.
19' Charisteas misses his header right in front of the Russian goal after a forty-three metre free-kick is floated in. Poor defending by the Russian defence against the inswinger.
23' Patsa does well on the right for Greece to give Charisteas a half-chance.
30' The Russians, worryingly for coach of Russia Guus Hiddink, allow the ball carrier to approach through the centre.
32' Goal. Greece 0 - 1 Russia. Cross by Torbinskiy over the head of GK Nikolidis beyond the far post is inexplicably followed by the keeper who is made to pay by Semak, who brilliantly bicycle kicks to the unmarked Zyryanov to tap home. Yes, it was a goalkeeping mistake, but Semak's recovery of the ball is one of the best moments of this competition.

The second half sees the Russians continue to push forward, and therefore finding the best chances to score. Paylyuvchenko is greedy though, and chances go begging.
Charisteas does head on target under pressure. The game is punctuated by many fouls.
78' Greek free kick on the right, outside the Russian box. Stelios on. Good delivery by Basinas. Cleared eventually by the Russians.
82' Zhirkov's free kick just over the Greek bar.
86' Gekas is adjudged offside as Greece get the ball in the Russian net.
ESPN commentator Adrian Healey says, "It's bleak for the Greek."
91' Semak's long run leads to Pavlyuvchenko with only the keeper to beat, but he shoots over.

Greece eliminated.

Russia deserve their victory.

Result: Greece 0 - 1 Russia.

WATCHSOCCER Man of the Match: Sergei Semak (RUS).