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The Greek football team has arrived back in Athens to a delirious reception from thousands of fans.

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Team captain Theodoros Zagorakis and Greece coach Otto Rehhagel emerged from the airport bearing the trophy aloft in triumph.

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A ceremony at Panathinaikon stadium began more than an hour late as the bus carrying the team inched thorough the crowds.

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More than 35,000 people packed the stadium, along with Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis.

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Special praise has been reserved for the coach Mr Rehhagel, credited with transforming the team into one of champions.

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The homecoming follows a night of wild celebrations after the team's 1-0 defeat of Portugal on Sunday.

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"Greek team, great team", the crowds sang. The national colours of blue and white were everywhere.

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The fans at home were almost as stunned as the Portuguese by the shock victory.