Athens, Greece: In a dramatic finale, Olympiakos secured Greece’s first-ever European club title with a narrow 1-0 victory over Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League final on Thursday (AEST).
Late Heroics Seal the Deal
The match, held at the AEK Arena in Athens, remained tense throughout regular time, with neither team willing to commit to high-risk plays. However, the deadlock was broken in the 116th minute by Moroccan striker Ayoub El Kaabi. The competition’s top scorer rose to meet a cross from Santiago Hezze, directing a diving header past Fiorentina’s goalkeeper. The goal sparked a wave of ecstatic celebrations, albeit delayed by a VAR check for offside.
Disappointment for Fiorentina
For Fiorentina, the defeat marked a heartbreaking repeat of last year’s Conference League final, where they fell 2-1 to West Ham United in the dying minutes.
Historic Night for Greece
Commentator Craig Foster, on Stan Sport, expressed the significance of the win: “What an incredible night for Greek football… It’s extraordinary. It’s historic.” This victory represents a monumental achievement for Olympiakos and Greece as a whole. Fans erupted in jubilation across the capital, with celebrations reaching a fever pitch in Piraeus, the team’s home base. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis lauded Olympiakos as “a true legend,” acknowledging their historic accomplishment.
Mendilibar Doubles Up, Security Concerns Arise
Olympiakos coach Jose Luis Mendilibar etched his name further into European football history, securing back-to-back Europa League titles after winning with Sevilla last season. The final was marred by brief skirmishes between Fiorentina fans and riot police, highlighting the extensive security measures implemented for the match.
El Kaabi’s Double-Edged Sword
While El Kaabi proved to be the hero with his late winner, he was largely subdued throughout the match, effectively neutralized by Fiorentina’s sturdy defense. Fiorentina goalkeeper Pietro Terracciano also deserves credit for keeping his team in the game with a string of crucial saves.
This historic victory for Olympiakos marks a watershed moment for Greek football, etching the names of players and coaches involved in the annals of sporting history.
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