Five years of absence seems like an eternity for Panathinaikos, a team whose DNA is deeply engraved with the word “Europe”! Today’s (20.00) match with Slavia in Prague thus acquires special significance, not only because he is the first official of the period and will largely judge the course of the Greens in Conference Leaguebut also because it symbolically marks their return to normal life after a very difficult decade at all levels. After all, the presence of Giannis Alafuzu in this game is symbolic, many years after he last followed the team in a match away from Athens.

And since “every beginning is difficult”, Panathinaikos will play with the infected virus today, which put Schenkefeld and Alexandropoulos out of action at the last minute. Aitor, Palacios, Juancar, Ioannidis were in the same position on the previous days, but they followed the mission and will be able to play even though they missed a few training days and got out of rhythm. Sporar also participates in the mission. He has no footwork in the last quarter, and if he does, he will be in danger even for a short time.

Today, the “greens” takes the Prague Slavia – without the team of Senkefeld and Alexandropoulos.

“The last 7-8 days have been tough. This is what can happen, we are a team that can find solutions to suit the requirements of each match. Both we and Slavia do not change our profile either at home or away. These will be two identical games, and I believe that after the second Panathinaikos will move on to the next phase,” Ivan Jovanovic emphasized, maintaining a low tone as usual. Slavia may also face problems, as their best striker Gira Shor, who is facing an injury problem, is doubtful. About 1000 fans will be on the side of the Greek team.

• Panathinaikos’ appeal was accepted and the two-match penalty and the fine he was given for the events of the Cup final were dropped. Thus, his first two home games, against Ionikos and AEK, will be played in the presence of fans at Leoforo.