Football Icon Mimis Domazos Dies at 83

Mimis Domazos, one of Greece's most beloved football legends, has passed away at the age of 83 following a cardiac arrest on January 22. Known as the "General" for his leadership on and off the field, Domazos' death was confirmed on Friday, January 24.

The former Panathinaikos star, who was born on January 22, 1942, had recently been battling health issues after contracting COVID-19. On the morning of January 22, Domazos sought medical attention at a diagnostic centre due to feeling unwell. During his examination, doctors discovered he was suffering from heart problems and pulmonary edema, a condition that caused fluid buildup in his lungs. Despite recommendations for immediate hospitalization, Domazos collapsed as he was leaving the centre. Emergency responders provided first aid, and he was rushed to the "Red Cross" hospital, where he remained in critical condition until his passing two days later.

Domazos is remembered as a towering figure in Greek football history. His legendary career began with Panathinaikos FC, where he played from 1959 to 1978. Over the course of his two-decade tenure, Domazos became the heart and soul of the team, captaining them to numerous victories, including a historic run to the UEFA European Cup final at Wembley in 1971, where they faced Ajax. Domazos won 13 titles with Panathinaikos and was renowned for his loyalty, captaining the club for nearly 15 years.

Following his time at Panathinaikos, Domazos briefly joined AEK Athens from 1978 to 1980, where he helped the club win a championship title before returning to Panathinaikos to retire in 1980, proudly wearing the club's iconic green and white colours.

On the international stage, Domazos was a key player for the Greek national team, earning 50 caps and scoring four goals throughout his career. He was captain of the national team for several years, making his debut on December 2, 1959, against Denmark. His final appearance for Greece came on November 11, 1980, in a friendly match against Australia, marking the end of an era in Greek football.

Mimis Domazos leaves behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the history of Greek football, both for his remarkable skill on the pitch and his leadership that earned him the enduring affection of fans.