Antwerp knew it was going to be a hot evening in Athens. Not only because the temperature in the evening was still close to 30 degrees, but also because the opponent was experienced and driven.
The first chance of the match went to Moja, but the Kosovar player did not have his day. He missed the start in the second half. From less than two meters he just made a pass on goal.
AEK played a dominant first half, but only left the visitors sweating between the 15th and 30th minutes. Botez himself wasted the biggest chance with a curt pass, but he also saved himself.
In the second half, AEK looked a bit tired, but after about an hour every Antwerp fan’s heart almost failed.
Right after Moja’s terrible miss, the strongman Alderweireld had to go to the side. The captain’s shoulder appeared to be dislocated. Together with Koulibaly, the youngster Van Denbosch suddenly formed the central duo at the back for Antwerp.
Fortunately, the pressure on the other side of the pitch was eased. Palekoisha did what he had already done with Moja: after a sharp move down the wing, he shot the ball perfectly prepared. Kirk finished the job: 0-1.
AEK only had an answer in the 90th minute. Antwerp seemed to be shaking for another 8 minutes, but a defensive error from the home team brought peace. Palicuesha was only able to get close to the goalkeeper and add a goal to his assists.
The draw for the group stage of the Champions League will take place tomorrow (Thursday).
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