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 game was for Muja, but the Kosovar didn’t have his day. He missed the essential in the second half. From less than two meters he only tapped wide for goal.
AEK played a dominant first half, but really only let the visitors sweat a little extra between the 15th and 30th minutes. Butez himself gave away the greatest chance with a laconic pass, but also saved himself.
In the second half, AEK looked a bit more tired, but around the hour the heart of every Antwerp fan almost threatened to skip a beat.
Just after Muja’s huge miss, strongman Alderweireld had to go to the side. The captain’s shoulder seemed dislocated. Together with Coulibaly, the young Van DenBosch suddenly formed the central duo in the back of Antwerp.
Fortunately, the pressure was relieved on the other side of the field. Balikwisha did what he already did for Muja: after a sharp action on the flank, lay the ball perfectly ready. Kerk did finish the job: 0-1.
AEK only had an answer in the 90th minute. Antwerp seemed to shiver for another 8 minutes, but a defensive mistake by the home team brought peace. Balikwisha could only approach the goalkeeper and added a goal to his assist.
Tomorrow (Thursday) the draw for the group stage of the Champions League will take place.
2023-08-30 22:14:01
#Antwerp #rises #heaven #victory #AEK #Athens #UEFA #Champions #League
