The sport involving kicking a ball into the opposing team's goal. - Piraeus rejoices following their triumph in the Conference League.
Football fans in Greece have been ecstatic over the unexpected victory of Olympiacos Piraeus, the national record champion, in the Conference League against AC Florence (1:0 after extra time).
The celebration began immediately after the final whistle, with tens of thousands of people gathering in cities across the country. In Piraeus, the night was illuminated by fireworks, firecrackers, and various pyrotechnics, as captured by Greek television.
"This is reminiscent of the enthusiasm after the Greek national team's surprise win at the 2004 European Championship," said an elderly man. "We haven't had such a large turnout in celebrating people in the past 20 years."
"Pandemonium everywhere," exclaimed the sports newspaper "Protathlitis." The festivities peaked when the Olympiacos team arrived at the central square of Piraeus, drawing an estimated 30,000 fans who had gathered to watch the match on a large screen there. Many arrived hours beforehand to secure a good viewing spot.
The celebrations finally concluded around 6:00 a.m., with most of the attendees heading straight to work. Greek television reports indicate that there were no incidents of violence, in stark contrast to the turbulent history of Greek football. Approximately 5,000 police officers were on duty to ensure safety.
Sports editors expressed hope that this success would prompt investments in organization and an end to the bitter hatred that has plagued Greek football in recent years, resulting in casualties. "Now it's time to create real gains from this success," they said. "Hopefully, this victory will inspire the major teams and fans of the country to come together and move beyond their differences."
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- Despite the excitement, the International Soccer Conference in Athens discussed the impact of technology on the sport, with notable figures like Otto Rehhagel in attendance.
- The victory in the Conference League propelled Olympiacos Piraeus into the limelight of the International Conference League, setting expectations high for future performances.
- The night of celebration in Piraeus was also showcased on television networks worldwide, highlighting the global appeal of soccer and the enthusiasm of Greek fans.
- Even television stations in Florence gave some coverage to the victory, acknowledging the impressive performance of AC Florence despite the defeat.
- In the wake of the victory, there have been discussions about the potential for AC Florence to participate in the Conference League again, fueled by the desire for another chance at overcoming Olympiacos Piraeus.
- The soccer-loving crowd in Piraeus was not the only one rejoicing over the victory; television stations across Greece and abroad broadcasted the final match of the Conference League, reflecting the worldwide fascination with soccer.
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