One of the greatest classic matches in the history of the Euro tournaments.

The match started with a bang and more bangs would follow. As the game progressed, both sides began to neglect their defensive duties for sheer attacking drive. Played at breakneck speed, the drama at both ends of the field was immense. By the end of the game, both sides had attempted nearly 40 shots. An absolute classic match that’s a real joy to watch in its full form.

Greece might have won the tournament with a series of dull 1-0 victories, they certainly weren’t the best team in Europe at the time. In 2004, that honour belonged to the Czech Republic. Featuring stars like Nedved, Koller, Rosicky and Poborsky, and one day fly Milan Baros, they played superb attacking football and were ready to emulate their Euro success from 1976.

The Dutch, in contrast, were struggling. They could still field many of the stars from the 1998-2000 era, but time hadn’t been kind to the aging Stam, De Boer, Cocu and Davids. Holland had played a disappointing 1-1 draw against Germany, and needed a win now. Coach Dick Advocaat decided it was time to unleash the talented dribbler Arjen Robben onto the international scene – with devastating effect.

Line-ups:

Holland
Van der Sar – Heitinga, Stam, Bouma, Van Bronckhorst – Cocu, Davids, Seedorf – Robben, Van Nistelrooy, Van der Meyde
Coach: Dick Advocaat

Czech Republic
Cech – Grygera, Ujfalasi, Jiranek, Jankulovksi – Galasek, Poborsky, Rosicky, Nedved – Baros, Koller
Coach: Karel Bruckner

Download links

Part 1
Part 2