Greece triumphs over Ireland to stay top of League B group
Source: NEOS KOSMOS
Greece’s bright start with coach Ivan Jovanovic stretched even further as they scored another important victory against Ireland, helping them hold onto first place in their UEFA Nations League group.
The “Ethniki” sealed a 2-0 success over the Irish at “Georgios Karaiskakis” Stadium on Monday morning (AEDT) in the fourth matchday of the UEFA Nations League, extending their perfect streak to four wins as they continue to remain in first of their League B group.
The “blue-whites” dominated proceedings for the entire first half, creating numerous chances they ultimately failed to convert into goals.
Their fortunes changed in the second period when captain Anastasios Bakasetas released a shot from outside of the box on his weaker right foot, which took a deflection off an Ireland defender as it sailed into the right side of the net (48′).
Ireland came out of their shell and forced a few good saves out of Odysseas Vlachodimos, though they proved unable to penetrate the Greek defence.
The “Ethniki” put the game to bed at the death after goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher sent a pass into the path of midfielder Petros Mantalos, with the AEK playmaker dribbling the ball around the keeper and finishing the ball into an empty goal (90+1′).
The result capped off another major result for Greece with the nation now in with a realistic shout of topping their group, an outcome that would have never been on their minds when they were drawn alongside England.
The “blue-whites” will be eager to preserve their position as group leaders, knowing that it would give them an advantage heading into the 2026 World Cup qualifiers by guaranteeing them a placement in the play-offs if they are unable to gain direct qualification to the tournament.
The Greeks will complete their final Nations League fixtures in November with two final games against England and Finland as they strive to accomplish a remarkable achievement.
The original article: NEOS KOSMOS .
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