Salzburg June 18- Two goals from Spain spoiled Greece's hopes of ending their Euro 2008 with pride. The Group D game ended with Spain earning a 2-1 win over the Greeks. Despite the score made by Angelos Charisteas, Greece failed to match up to the prowess shown by Spain yesterday and before.
As the Greece-Spain match began, Spain looked more menacing of the two teams. Yet, Greece built up a strong defense soon after making a few nervous moves. The opening 30 minutes were not quite fruitful for either of the teams though Spain's captain Xabi Alonso made remarkable efforts to score. The long-range shot of Alonso went flying past Greece's left hand post. Greece made a few moves but, Spanish goalkeeper Pepe Reina had nothing to worry for a while.
It was in the 42nd minute that Greece went ahead with a goal from Charisteas. The free kick made by Giorgos Karagounis was turned into an impressive header by Charisteas. Spain came close to equalizing the score when Alonso struck from 30 yards. But his shot went across goal. The team didn't have to wait long to get a score. A shot by Alonso was turned into a goal by De la Red.
Greece threatened to double its score when Charisteas tried to strike. But, the ball hit the outside of the post. As the last 20 minutes of the Euro 2008 Group D match approached, the score remained at a deadlock at 1-1. Spain started gaining control and Guiza and Garcia were making efforts to win the match. The goal finally came just two minutes before the game ended. Guiza turned Garcia's far-post cross into a header that went past Greek goalkeeper Nikopolidis and straight into the net.
The winners of Group D, Spain will face Italy in the quarterfinals in Vienna on Sunday. As for Greece, the team has to say a miserable goodbye to Euro Cup 2008 championship.
Final Score Greece-Spain match June 18
Greece 1-2 Spain
Goals
3
