"The play-off against Ukraine is always in the back of my mind. I know that these games are coming and also how important they are for my country. Being this close to a World Cup is a huge thing, especially for Greece because we have only qualified once before," Samaras said to FIFA.com.

"Sixteen years is a long time and everyone wants to make sure that we are back at this big football party again. It would mean a lot for the country, the people and, of course, for us as players. It would be something that I am sure we would remember for the rest of our lives.

"What we definitely don't want is to look back after a play-off like this and think, ‘If only I had run more, put in that tackle, won that header or passed that ball better'. It's important that we don't come away with any regrets," continued the Celtic striker.

"It was a good thing for us that were seeded and could avoid the likes of France and Portugal but, for me, Ukraine were one of the toughest teams in that second group. Personally, I think it's 50-50.

"I think it will come down to who plays and handles the occasion better. Whatever happens, I think you will see a good match between two strong, very evenly-matched teams. I know that we are in a good position right now anyway."