The Greek Football team, organised by the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM), has progressed undefeated to the quarter finals of the All-Nations Cup.
After two draws in its first 2 games against Afghanistan and Iraq, Greece dominated its final opponent France from early in the game and had a convincing 2 0 victory.
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, 6th 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 seeing 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 hearing them singing the Greek National Anthem after the win against France literally gave me goosebumps. I wish the boys the very best of luck in the finals and encourage the Greek Community in Melbourne to come and support our team, Sunday week against the Republic of Somalia".
Coach George Katsakis was also excited with the prospect of the team progressing further in the tournament and couldn't speak highly enough of the boys.
"I'm so proud to be leading this group of Greek players playing together, representing Greece in the All-Nations Cup. It was a tough start to the tournament as I had amassed a group of players, from various NPL clubs, who had never played together, and it has definitely been a challenge to get them all to work as one cohesive unit. I'm confident we have what it takes to go all the way and win the tournament".
Peter Skapetis, captain of the team, was very optimistic after the win against France.
"Having been given the opportunity to captain the Greek Team and represent the Greek Community, is definitely something I will 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".
Kon Kyranakis, Team manager, also expressed his excitement after the win against France.
"Seeing these players 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".
Finally, Bill Papastergiadis, President of the Greek Community in Melbourne, couldn't hide his excitement.
"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 2 weeks' time when we play off for a potential spot in the Semi Finals. Congratulations to our boys and I wish them all the best in the finals".
