Olympiacos owner Vangelis Marinakis expressed immense pride in his team despite their elimination from European competition following a tough rematch against Bodo/Glimt at Karaiskakis Stadium.
Speaking after the match, Marinakis praised the players’ resilience, highlighted refereeing controversies, and looked ahead to a promising future for the club.
“We’re proud,” Marinakis said. “Olympiacos is back in the Champions League with experience and trophies, and I believe they’ll give us many beautiful nights. This team has grit, a bright future, and makes us proud.” He pointed to the stats: Olympiacos had nine shots on target and two goals, while Bodo managed one shot and one goal. The reds also earned 11 corners to Bodo’s zero. Yet, a missed penalty, questionable refereeing decisions, and missed chances tilted the scales.
Reflecting on the tie, Marinakis noted the challenges of the first leg in Norway, where an uneven pitch, injuries, and absences of key players like El Kaabi and Kostoulas hampered the squad. “Even with 10 men and Retsos in goal, we created three chances,” he said. “Everything went against us, but the players’ effort to qualify was moving. The fans never stopped singing and supporting them.”
Despite the “unjust” exit, Marinakis drew positives. “We’ve gained valuable lessons about our team, coach, and supporters,” he said. “I told the players to rest, return for the playoffs, win the league, claim the cup, and secure the double in our 100th anniversary year. They deserve it, along with the coach and our incredible fans.”
He singled out 18-year-old academy star Mouzakitis, who “played like a veteran,” and celebrated the unity of homegrown talents with the squad. “Seeing their effort, Karaiskakis giving us energy—it’s unique. If we’d scored the penalty, it’d be a different story. I congratulated them, though we’re gutted—we expected to advance.”
Marinakis remains optimistic: “This team’s got metal in its veins and a future that’ll keep us proud.”