Nations League, Greece – Ireland 2-0: First and foremost with two goals dedicated to George

End of the match Greece won 2-0 against Ireland and continues its unbeaten run in the Nations League group.

It was simply FANTASTIC. The national football team added another outstanding performance to their record. In a packed “G. Karaiskakis” stadium, where players, coaching staff, EPO officials, and of course the fans all came together like one “fist” to honor the memory of the tragically lost George Baldock, they won 2-0 against Ireland and continue with a perfect record (4 wins out of 4) in their Nations League group.

Despite the emotional strain from their friend’s sudden and unjust loss, our internationals made a heartfelt effort following their tremendous performance in London. Now, if they do not lose to England on the 14th of next month, they will secure first place from the 5th matchday, along with all the “benefits” that come with it.

Ivan Jovanovic opted for the same starting lineup as at Wembley, with 10 out of 11 players unchanged, the only change being Hatziadakis replacing the suspended Kouliarakis. Specifically, Vlachodimos was in goal, with Rota, Hatziadakis, Mavropanos, and Giannoulis forming the defense, Siopis and Kourbelis in midfield, Masouras and Tzolis on the wings, and Bakasetas behind Pavlidis.

13/10/2024 23:39
GOOOOOOAL for Greece
90’+2′: A mistake by the Irish, Mantalos evades Kelleher and slots the ball home for 2-0.

13/10/2024 23:06
57′: Taylor and Ebosele are the first substitutions for Ireland.

13/10/2024 23:02

13/10/2024 23:01
52′: Greece is leading fully deservedly, with Manolis Siopis delivering an outstanding performance from the first minute!

13/10/2024 22:57
51′: From Masouras’ shot, the ball, which was heading towards the net, deflected off Pavlidis.

13/10/2024 22:56
51′: Corner for Greece, looking to seal the game.

13/10/2024 22:55
GOAL for Greece
48′: Bakasetas takes the shot, the ball deflects but this time it ends up in Kelleher’s net.

13/10/2024 22:52
The second half kicks off.

Key Highlights from the First Half

• 13′ – Intense Greek Pressure: The Greek national team continues to press hard, but the Irish defense, showing great commitment, clears the ball away with resilience.
• 11′ – Masouras’ Close Call: Masouras takes advantage of a deflection, and unleashes a shot, but Ireland’s goalkeeper Kelleher reacts swiftly, pushing the ball out for a corner.
• 8′ – Bakasetas Blocked: After a series of deflections, the ball falls to Greek captain Bakasetas, but his shot is blocked by an Irish defender, resulting in another corner for Greece.
• 4′ – Defensive Mistake: A slip-up in the Greek defense as Siopis loses possession, allowing Ireland’s Ferguson to come close, but he misses a crucial opportunity.

Emotional Start to the Game

• Minute of Silence: The atmosphere at Faliro was somber and respectful as the crowd observed a minute of silence in memory of the late George Baldock, a touching tribute that moved everyone present.
• Kickoff: The game began at 21:47, with Greece in their home kit. Rodinei proudly wore the number 10 shirt, usually worn by Fortounis.
• National Anthems: The match started with the playing of Ireland’s national anthem, followed by Greece’s anthem, setting the stage for a highly anticipated game.

Background on the Match

• Standings: After three rounds, Greece tops the group with 9 points (7 goals scored, 1 conceded), followed by England with 6 points. Ireland has 3 points, while Finland is yet to score.
• Upcoming Matches:
  
  • 5th Round (14/11): Greece vs England, Ireland vs Finland
  • 6th Round (17/11): England vs Ireland, Finland vs Greece

Team News and Tactical Adjustments

• Greece’s Undefeated Streak: Greece remains unbeaten against Ireland, with 5 wins and 1 draw in their past meetings. Remarkably, Greece has won all four away games in Dublin.
• Match Referee: The young and inexperienced Dutch referee Joey Koi is officiating his first men’s international match at this level.
• Ireland’s Squad Changes: Irish coach Heimir Hallgrímsson made four changes compared to their last loss to Greece, including Brighton star Evan Ferguson, who starts tonight.
• Greek Lineup: Due to injuries and suspensions, Greece’s lineup saw a few changes. Fotis Ioannidis is sidelined due to injury, while Konstantinos Koulierakis is suspended. Tsimikas and Konstantelias are available after overcoming their respective issues. The likely starting lineup: Vlachodimos, Rota, Mavropanos, Retsos, Giannoulis, Kourbelis (or Mantalos), Siopis (or Mantalos), Masouras, Bakasetas, Tzolis, Pavlidis.

Greece’s Motivation for Victory

Beyond the important standings points at stake, the Greek players are motivated to win this home match in honor of the late George Baldock. The match is being played in a packed “Karaiskakis” stadium, with tickets selling out quickly following Greece’s stunning victory over England in London.

Greece vs Ireland: Pre-Match Analysis

This is the second encounter between the two teams in just a month, following Greece’s 2-0 win in Dublin. Greece, energized by their recent victory in London, is aiming for a fourth consecutive win in the Nations League, which would solidify their lead in the group.

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