Evangelos Marinakis shares touching moment with opposition owner as Olympiacos win historic double | OneFootball

Football is supposed to be a game of fierce rivalries – but on Saturday night in Athens, it was all about respect.

Olympiacos supremo Evangelos Marinakis and OFI Crete owner Michael Bousis stunned fans with a warm embrace on the pitch before the Betsson Greek Cup final – showing that even in high-stakes clashes, football can still bring people together.

The surprise moment came just minutes before kick-off at the iconic Athens Olympic Stadium, as both men were spotted deep in conversation and smiling for the cameras.

It was a feel-good scene before the fireworks began on the pitch – quite literally.

Olympiacos, who had already wrapped up the Super League title, completed the domestic double with a 2-0 win over OFI Crete. The victory caps off a huge milestone for the Piraeus giants, who are celebrating their 100th anniversary this year.

The stadium was rocking, packed to the rafters, as Olympiacos lifted their 19th Greek Cup – and their celebrations went long into the night.

Marinakis, who also owns Nottingham Forest, has become a major figure in both Greek and British football – and his handshake with Bousis didn’t go unnoticed. It sent a powerful message about unity in a sport too often split by politics and power struggles.

It’s not the first time Greece has hosted a top-tier final in style. Last season, the Karaiskakis Stadium in Piraeus played host to the UEFA Super Cup final between Manchester City and Sevilla – a match that drew praise for its smooth organisation and electric atmosphere.

Now, after a final with no trouble, high drama, and a touch of class, Greek football bosses will hope this is the new norm.

One thing’s for sure – Olympiacos fans will remember this campaign for a long, long time as they look forward to playing Champions League football next season.

Read – On this day 2008: The first all-English Champions League final

See more – Tottenham vs Manchester United: Who needs the trophy more?

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