Thousands of Greek Australians will be holding their breath to see if Greece has the goods to qualify for the World Cup.
Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide will all host 6 am viewings of Greece’s first match against Romania at local community venues to join in the Greek soccer spirit.
Greece drew Romania in the play-off draw, after it failed to qualify outright for the Brazil World Cup. It was given a helping had after avoiding tough opponents like Sweden and France in the draw.
But, the Euro 2004 champions won eight of their 10 qualifiers and conceded only four goals in the process, amassing more points than any other second-placed side in the European qualifying groups. The lack of goals cost them early qualification.
Its performance when it matters has counted for something and its 13th world ranking is there for a reason.
Romania is ranked 29th, and with the travel fatigue would have been shaking in their boots.
Greece was without Kyriakos Papadopoulos as the Schalke defender continues to struggle with a knee injury.
Fanis Gekas, 33, was recalled by head coach Fernado Santos and played in an experienced squad that also included veteran skipper Giorgos Karagounis and 34-year-old midfielder Kostas Katsouranis.
Earlier in the week, Santos was optimistic of the team’s chances.
“The Romanians are an excellent team, but I believe we will be the ones to make it through,” he said.
Australian fans can view the match live from 6.00am in special live screenings in their respective states. Melbourne will host it at The Beachcomber Café, 10-18 Jacka Boulevard, St Kilda; Sydney will host it Canterbury Leagues Club, Paragon Showcase Room, 26 Bridge Rd Belmore, NSW and Adelaide will show it at 5:30am at The Pan-Macedonian Association, 94 Henley Beach Rd, Mile End. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the door.
Their next match is scheduled for November 19, when Greece travels to Bucharest to have their final say in who makes it to Brazil.
