In the presence of many of his ardent fans, as well as Theodoros Karipides, Aris completed preparations for today’s (21.00) game against Maccabi Tel Aviv in a (seemingly) crowded Cl. Vikelides”. Their 2-0 defeat in Israel forces the Yellow-Blacks to chase more disappointment to qualify for the Conference League playoffs against a stronger team, as Herman Burgos noted: “To have the right image, we need to see Maccabi’s image: 23 championships, 23 Cups, six Super Cups, permanent presence in Europe. It’s a beautiful thing in football to eliminate such a team, but we also have to reach the appropriate level.”

The usually taciturn Argentine coach looked optimistic despite the difficulties: “We are doing well, we have been working all week and we are ready. In order to win, we must realize the chances that we missed in the first game. The role of the world will be especially important. From the first minutes we will go out to win. It’s up to us. All the pressure is on me, I take it on myself to take it off my players.” There are no last minute problems for both Aris and Maccabi. With an expression of gratitude, the “yellow-black” PAE said goodbye to Giorgos Delesisis, who will continue to work for Niki Volou.