AEK Athens are champions of Greece for the first time since 2023, clinching the title with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panathinaikos in the dying seconds of Sunday's match. Joao Mario's 93rd-minute strike at the Athens Olympic Stadium sent the yellow-and-black faithful into raptures, as the club secured its 14th Super League crown with two games to spare.
The title race reached its climax on a tense Sunday evening. AEK needed a win against arch-rivals Panathinaikos to stay on course, while also relying on a result from the other key fixture: Olympiakos versus PAOK Salonika. For much of the match, Panathinaikos held firm, frustrating the home side with disciplined defending. But just as extra time was announced, Joao Mario latched onto a loose ball inside the box and fired past the goalkeeper, sparking wild celebrations.
“It was a moment of pure ecstasy,” said AEK captain Harold Moukoudi, the former Le Havre and Saint-Étienne defender who lifted the trophy. “We never gave up, and that belief carried us through.” The victory, combined with Olympiakos and PAOK drawing 1-1 in Piraeus, gave AEK an unassailable eight-point lead at the top of the table.
The title ends a two-year drought for the club, which last won the league in 2023. Since then, AEK had seen fierce rivals Olympiakos claim back-to-back titles. This triumph restores AEK to the summit of Greek football and carries significant financial and sporting implications.
AEK have now booked their place in the UEFA Champions League group stage for the first time since the 2018-19 season, a major boost for the club's revenue and prestige. “This is where we belong,” head coach Matías Almeyda said after the match. “Our players showed incredible character all season, and earning this Champions League spot is the reward they deserve.”
The final outcome was decided in the last seconds, but it was built on a season of consistency. AEK’s defense, marshaled by Moukoudi, conceded the fewest goals in the league, while their attack, led by striker Levi García, scored freely throughout the campaign. Sunday’s result was emblematic: a resolute rear guard followed by a moment of magic upfront.
For Panathinaikos, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow. They had hoped to delay AEK's coronation and keep their own faint title hopes alive. Instead, the Greens now face a fight to secure a Europa League spot. Meanwhile, the draw between Olympiakos and PAOK ended both teams' slim chances, confirming AEK as champions.
The victory also highlights the depth of the Greek Super League this season. AEK's triumph was not a runaway; they had to scrap for points against well-organized opponents. “This league is tougher than ever,” Almeyda added. “To come out on top gives me immense pride in my players.”
As the celebrations continue in the capital, attention now turns to the summer transfer window and Champions League preparations. AEK will look to strengthen their squad to compete on two fronts next season. But for now, the focus is on savoring a hard-earned title.
Based on reporting from L'Equipe.
