Greece through despite defeat by Russia

Greece conceded the fastest goal in European Championship finals history as they slumped to a 2-1 defeat by Russia in Euro 2004 Group A on Sunday.

Greek disappointment was short-lived, however, as they reached the quarter-finals following Portugal's 1-0 victory over Spain.

Needing only a draw to guarantee a place in the last eight, the Greeks made the worst possible start by going a goal down after just 65 seconds.

Striker Dmitry Kirichenko burst through the middle of the Greek defence and fired past keeper Antonis Nikopolidis for already eliminated Russia's first goal of the tournament.

The Russians doubled their lead 15 minutes later when unmarked striker Dmitry Bulykin powered home a diving header from a Rolan Gusev corner.

It could have been even worse for the dazed Greeks, but Russian midfielder Andrei Karayka volleyed a great chance over from close range midway through the first half.

Greece grabbed a lifeline two minutes before halftime when striker Zisis Vryzas pulled one back, making space to chip over goalkeeper Vyacheslav Malafeyev after Dimitrios Papadopoulous headed the ball down into his path.

The Russians, who came into the match on the back of a record winless streak of nine games at European Championships, continued to play with greater freedom in the second half.

Substitute Dmitry Sychev almost made it 3-1 after 61 minutes but goalkeeper Nikopolidis beat away his shot.

Greece, who beat Portugal and drew with Spain in their first two matches, badly missed injured midfielder Stelios Giannakopoulos and the suspended Giorgos Karagounis.

Midfielder Vassilis Tsartas almost equalised for Greece in the 78th minute but Malafeyev did well to save his bending free kick.