After much deliberation, Football Australia and the Hellenic Football Federation have confirmed Friday that the Greek Cup final will be held in Melbourne.
This comes following reports the Greek federation has been considering the possibility of hosting the ultimate match outside the country, opting instead for a locale abroad with a significant Hellenic diaspora.
Neos Kosmos had previously reported on the intention of the president of the Hellenic Football Federation, Takis Baltakos to bring the Greek soccer cup final to Australia.
Mr Baltakos sent an official request to Football Australia Chair Chris Nikou back in February, requesting to potentially host the Greek soccer cup final here given that thousands of Hellenes in Australia passionately support Hellenic teams.
Mr Nikou, jointly with Football Victoria Chair Kimon Taliadoros have officially greenlighted the first Greek Cup Final to take place abroad, in Australia.
The decision was reportedly influenced by the President of the Greek Community of Melbourne Bill Papastergiadis and Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events and the Minister for Creative Industries Steve Dimopoulos.
It is not yet known which teams will compete in the final will most likely be a derby between AEK and PAOK. Should Olympiacos manage to survive AEK in the next match and lead by at least three goals (in the first match Olympiacos lost to AEK 3-0), then the final will be between Olympiacos and PAOK.
The Greek Cup Final is set to take place at AAMI with tickets becoming available once the two leading teams make it through to the final.
The Greek Community is already organising a grand reception for the top Greek football teams with a special event headlined by a famous Greek singer. The major event will be supported Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia.
More in Neos Kosmos‘ Monday edition.
