Coach wants heroic death or double win
Otto Rehhagel, the recently appointed German coach of Greece’s national soccer team, exhorted his players to fight for a good outcome against England in their last qualifier for the 2002 World Cup today. If we are to die, let us die as heroes, Rehhagel told reporters in Manchester, England, where today’s match will be played. Rehhagel was irritated by talk of Greece’s certain defeat. He also wants Greece to spoil England’s chances to finish first in Group 9, ahead of his own country. He has told German media that a Greek win would make him a hero in two countries. But, if we are to die, we must at least put up a fight, Rehhagel said, referring to Greece’s 5-1 defeat against Finland, in his debut match as the national team’s coach. England must defeat Greece in order to finish top of the group and advance to the World Cup Finals. The runner-up must compete in two play-off matches.
