Greece dominated Kazakhstan in their Euro 2024 play-off semi-final, securing a commanding 5-0 victory on Thursday. This win earned Greece a spot in one of Tuesday's three play-off finals and brought them close to qualifying for the tournament for the first time in 12 years.
Greece took an early lead with two goals scored within the first 15 minutes. Captain Anastasios Bakasetas converted a powerful penalty in the ninth minute, following a foul on Dimitrios Pelkas by defender Bagdat Kairov. Just six minutes later, Pelkas himself doubled the lead with a header, igniting cheers from the enthusiastic home crowd.
Despite their efforts, Kazakhstan struggled to break through Greece's defense and found themselves outplayed once again when Giorgios Masouras initiated a swift counterattack, providing a cross for Fotis Ioannidis to slot home from close range in the 37th minute.
Greece continued to dominate as Dimitrios Kourbelis scored with a header five minutes before halftime, extending the lead to four goals. A late own goal by Alexandr Marochkin further widened the gap, sealing a comprehensive 5-0 victory for Greece.
With this impressive win, Greece advances to face Georgia in the play-off final on Tuesday.
A victory against Georgia at the intimidating Boris Paichadze National Stadium would secure Greece's return to the European Championship after a 12-year absence and their first major tournament since the 2014 World Cup.
Group Stage Awaits!
If Greece qualifies, their group and schedule for the Euro 2024 tournament in Germany are already determined:
Group F
Match Schedule:
After Paula Badosa's semifinal loss at the 2025 Australian Open, she reflected on her journey…
Archaeologists in Turkey have unearthed around 2,000 pieces of bronze statues in an ancient scrapyard…
A viral social media post has ignited rumors of a romantic relationship between Jennifer Aniston…
On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the formation of a dedicated cryptocurrency working group…
Kimberly Guilfoyle, the U.S. Ambassador to Greece-designate, was honored at an event in Washington, D.C.,…
In a stunning revelation, former President Donald Trump has reportedly signed an order to declassify…