Apollon Smyrnis - Proodeftiki
Greece - Super League 2, Group B, Round 28
Proodeutiki, the home team, continues to struggle as they suffered their fifth consecutive defeat, this time losing 2-1 to Kalamata at the Ilioupoli stadium. Despite the urgency for a much-needed win, their overall performance was below par, while the opponent displayed a determined effort to deny them victory. At the beginning of the match, Proodeutiki had two significant opportunities with Kapnidis to take the lead (1', 7'). However, from the 30th minute onwards, Astra took control, scoring in the 42nd minute and adding another goal in stoppage time to seal the victory. Proodeutiki managed to reduce the deficit with a well-placed penalty shot by Kapnidis in the 67th minute, but that was the only highlight for them. In the 82nd minute, Astra made another crucial intervention, and five minutes later, Proodeutiki's third goal attempt was denied by the crossbar. The head coach, Giorgos Alexopoulos, has stepped down, and Paris Andralas will now take charge of the team for the remaining three matches. Their sole objective is to secure three wins (against Apollon Smyrnis away, Ilioupoli at home, and Aegaleo away), which will also guarantee their survival.
Team news: It is worth noting that Proodeutiki made a rare announcement on the eve of the match. They will be missing key players such as Fazou, Markopouliotis, and Flensburg due to injury issues, as well as Karriki and Tsakiris who are not fully fit. Daviotis has been suspended. On a positive note, Madic returns to the squad after serving his suspension (yellow card).
In Paris Andralas' debut as the new coach, Proodeutiki enters the final match with only victory on their minds. The struggling form of Apollon Smyrni gives them hope, although Yiannis Tatsis will strive to turn around the negative atmosphere surrounding his team. A choice leaning towards X2 seems reasonable, taking motivation into consideration.
The race promises to be an intense one for Proodeutiki as they enter this crucial match under the guidance of Paris Andralas. With hopes of securing a victory, the team is eager to turn their fortunes around. The poor performance of Apollon Smyrni provides them with a glimmer of hope, although Yiannis Tatsis, the opposing coach, will undoubtedly work hard to reverse the negative climate surrounding his team.