Dramatic Finish as Olympiakos Clinches Historic First Continental Trophy
In an intense Europa Conference League final, Greek club Olympiakos triumphed over Fiorentina with a last-minute goal in extra time to secure their first-ever European title. The match, which took place at Athens' Agia Sophia stadium, saw both teams battling fiercely but never managed to score in regular time, eventually leading to a 1-0 victory for the Greeks.
Despite Fiorentina holding slightly better possession (52%) and attempting more shots (15 to Olympiakos' 5), the Italians struggled to break through the Greek defense and failed to capitalize on their opportunities, managing only four shots on target compared to Olympiakos' three. A disallowed goal for Milenkovic due to offside in the 10th minute further showcased Fiorentina’s missed chances.
The critical moment came in the 116th minute. In a swift counter-attack, Hezze delivered a perfect cross that found Ayoub El Kaabi, who headed the ball past Fiorentina’s goalkeeper Terracciano. The goal was briefly under review for offside but was ultimately confirmed, allowing Olympiakos and their fans to celebrate the historic win.
This victory marks Olympiakos' first European trophy, making it an unprecedented milestone as no Greek club had gone beyond the quarter-finals of any continental competition before this. The win is particularly significant considering Olympiakos had changed their coach three times in two seasons before finding stability under José Luis Mendilibar.
For Fiorentina, the loss is a bitter disappointment. Having already lost in the Europa Conference League final the previous year, this defeat adds to their frustrations, compounded by their poor domestic performance this season, where they languish in eighth place in Serie A. Coach Vincenzo Italiano, who will leave Fiorentina at the end of the season, expressed pride in his team's journey but acknowledged that a trophy remains elusive.
In a country troubled by football-related violence, the event’s security was robust, with approximately 5,000 police officers deployed to ensure safety, and all public gatherings in Attica were banned.
- The Athens Agia Sophia stadium was packed with enthusiastic Olympiakos supporters who witnessed their club make history on home soil. This monumental win further cemented Olympiakos' status as Greece’s most successful club.
- The Spanish coach José Luis Mendilibar, who guided the team to this historic achievement, praised his players for their hard work and dedication. Under his leadership, Olympiakos has significantly improved, showcasing their potential in European football.
- Fiorentina’s journey to the final was marked by their struggle to maintain consistency. Despite their domestic woes, reaching the final of a European competition two years in a row shows the potential and resilience of the team.
- The losing effort sees Fiorentina still searching for their first piece of European silverware since winning the Cup Winners' Cup in 1961. This adds to the mounting pressure on the club to reinstate their past glories.
