Greece's national soccer team
Manager: Otto Rehhagel
Best: Round one (1994)
A Cinderella side in international football, Greece shocked the world by winning Euro 2004 against all odds. Still, that might have been the summit of their achievements as the team failed to qualify for the last World Cup or gain a single point at Euro 2008. The majority of their players earn their wages in domestic leagues, whereas most of the world's top contenders represent teams in the top-tier leagues of England, Spain and Italy. A notable exception is striker Theofanis Gekas, who is on loan at German side Hertha BSC and was the top scorer across all of Europe's qualifying groups with an impressive 10 goals. Back in 2004, German coach Otto Rehnagel proved what team-work and tight tactical discipline can bring, and he will be hoping once again to cause a few upsets — and give Greeks something to cheer amid their economic catastrophe.
Player to watch: The experienced captain and midfield playmaker Giorgos Karagounis, who has played for both Inter Milan and Benfica.