Giorgos Karagounis experienced a wide range of emotions as he inspired Greece to victory over Russia, with the midfielder tasting the highs and lows of international football. Chris Burton reflects on a memorable night for the enigmatic 35-year-old.
Saturday 16 June 2012 22:58, UK
Giorgos Karagounis experienced a range of emotions as he led Greece to victory over Russia.
If it feels as though Giorgos Karagounis has been part of the international scene for eternity, it is because he has. Here is a man who made his senior bow for Greece in the 20th century, but is still going strong some 13 years later. Few could have imagined he would achieve so much when he took his first tentative steps on the road to becoming a national icon back in 1999. Karagounis is, however, his country's on-field leader, creative influence and cheerleader-in-chief. On Saturday, he moved alongside the legendary Theo Zagorakis as the most decorated player in the history of Greek football. A meeting with Russia saw him earn his 120th cap, and it would prove to be a night to remember for the enigmatic midfielder. Karagounis has always been a bundle of energy, with a short fuse likely to go off at any time. He spent much of the first half against Russia gesticulating wildly towards the match officials, with his amateur dramatics befitting the Greek tragedy which appeared to be on the cards. It was, however, in first half stoppage-time that he sprung to life and ensured there would be a happy ending to this particular tale.