Arsenal star Tzolis sparks Greece comeback against Serbia
by Moronfolu Adeyemi · The Eagle OnlineArsenal winger Christos Tzolis inspired Greece’s dramatic comeback as they defeated Serbia 2-1 in their UEFA Nations League opener at the Rajko Mitic Stadium in Belgrade.
Serbia took the lead after just four minutes when Andrija Zivkovic headed the hosts in front.
Tzolis then became a key figure in Greece’s response, tormenting the Serbian defence before scoring the equaliser in the 74th minute.
The 24-year-old praised his team-mates for remaining composed after conceding early in a hostile away environment, with Greece producing 21 attempts during the match.
Tzolis said: “I’m very happy that we turned this result around. We conceded the goal very quickly, which was difficult to manage at the opponent’s home ground.
“I think we didn’t play with anxiety. It was a fair victory, even though it came in the last minute. We deserved it a little earlier.”
With Greece pushing for a winner, head coach Ivan Jovanovic made an ultra-attacking tactical switch, moving to a 4-2-4 formation and deploying all five of his forwards during the closing stages.
Vangelis Pavlidis, Fotis Ioannidis, Charalampos Kostoulas, Christian Tetteis and substitute Tasos Douvikas were all used as Greece sought to break down Serbia’s defensive block.
The gamble eventually paid off when Douvikas headed home the winner in the 95th minute.
Jovanovic admitted the decision also left him feeling anxious as Greece pushed for the winning goal.
“I suffered too for putting all five in,” Jovanovic said with a smile.
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“Sometimes you take some risks. I’m happy that all of them played a good game. I won’t hide from you that I suffered too with that. It was a game in which after so many opportunities, you take a risk.”
The victory puts Greece top of Group A2 alongside the Netherlands ahead of Sunday’s away fixture against Germany in Augsburg.
Greece will now turn their attention to the Germany clash as they look to build on their dramatic comeback victory in Belgrade.
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