The ‘Greece’ football team, organised by the Greek Community of Melbourne, has progressed to the quarter finals of the All Nations Cup.
After two draws in its first two games against Afghanistan and Iraq, Greece dominated its final opponent France from early in the game and had a convincing 2 – 0 win.
Greece has now finished on top of Group B and will now play The Republic of Somalia, who finished second in Group A, in the quarter finals on Sunday, 6 November.
Michael Karamitos, Vice President of the Greek Community of Melbourne, who was instrumental in organising the team, was excited with the outcome and is looking forward to see how far the team can progress in the tournament.
“To see these boys, of Greek descent come together and play for Greece is something very special and singing the national anthem in the rooms after the win against France, gave me goosebumps,” he said.
“I wish the boys all the best in the finals and I encourage the Greek community in Melbourne to come and support our team Sunday week against the Republic of Somalia.”
On a similar note, coach George Katsakis shared his excitement on the prospect of the team progressing further in the tournament.
“I’m so proud to be leading this group of Greek kids playing together, representing Greece in the All Nations Cup. It was a tough start to the tournament as I had amassed a group of kids from various NPL clubs, who had never played together and it has definitely been a challenge to get them all to work together as one cohesive unit. I’m confident we have what it takes to go all the way and win the tournament.”
Similarly, Peter Skapetis, said that “the opportunity to captain Greece and represent the Greek community of Melbourne is something I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.”
“I feel so proud to be associated with this team and the Greek community and we will do our very best in the finals to achieve our ultimate goal of winning the tournament.”
“Seeing these boys come together from day one at training to where they are now, is an amazing achievement and we look forward to the finals and what’s to come,” added Kon Kyranakis, team manager.
Last but not least, the President of the Greek Community Bill Papastergiadis congratulated the boys after their win against France and wished them all the best in the finals.
“We at the Community are so proud of this team, led by our esteemed coaches George Katsakis and Con Tangalakis, and win or lose, they’ve done us proud and I encourage as many people as possible to come and support the team in two weeks time when we play off for a potential spot in the Semi Finals.”
