Greek champions Olympiakos Piraeus made a winning start to their title defence on Monday with a 1-0 away win at AEL Kalloni.
They take on Atromitos next on Monday, who have just come off a Europa League loss to Dutch team AZ Alkmaar. The team only managed to pass through one goal, admitting defeat 1-3. Olympiakos will have the advantage, playing at home this time, and will be well rested.
Spanish coach Michel’s revamped team, who won their 40th domestic league title last season, began Monday’s match with seven new players in the starting XI including Argentina forward Javer Saviola, signed from Malaga last month.
However, it was one of last season’s regulars, Greece midfielder Giannis Maniatis, who proved the difference by scoring the only goal of the game when he side-footed home after a corner in the 61st minute against newly promoted Kalloni.
Olympiakos looked more dangerous after the introduction of exciting young Greece winger Giannis Fetfatzidis after halftime, but he failed to inspire the visitors to more goals.
The victory ensured the Red and Whites kept level with Panathinaikos, who won 2-0 against Panaitolikos in their season opener. Spanish midfielder Nano and Swedish forward Marcus Berg scored on debut for Panathinaikos. They take on newly promoted Panionios tomorrow in an away match.
Panathinaikos takes on Panionios tomorrow, a newly promoted club that couldn’t manage to score against OFI in a 0-0 match on Monday.
Apollon Smirnis managed to secure a home win against Aris 2-1, PAS Giannina drew 3-3 at Asteras, Panthrakikos drew 2-2 at Platanias.
Source: Kathimerini
