Panathinaikos cruise past Panetolikos in Greek Super League

Panathinaikos delivered a statement performance at the OPAP Arena, defeating Panetolikos Agrinio 3-0 in a Greek Super League clash that underlined their title credentials. A first-half brace from Fotis Ioannidis and a late strike from Bernard sealed a comfortable victory for the hosts, who controlled the match from start to finish.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, Panathinaikos imposed their rhythm, pressing high and forcing Panetolikos into a deep defensive block. The visitors struggled to maintain possession, and their resistance was broken in the 12th minute when Ioannidis latched onto a through ball and finished clinically. Panathinaikos doubled their lead in the 34th minute, Ioannidis again on target after a slick exchange with Bernard. The second half was more subdued, but Bernard added a third in the 78th minute, curling a shot into the far corner.

Key Moments

• 12' — Fotis Ioannidis opens the scoring with a composed finish.
• 34' — Ioannidis strikes again, converting a low cross from the right.
• 58' — Panetolikos' best chance: a free-kick narrowly wide.
• 78' — Bernard wraps up the win with a superb individual goal.

Tactical Story

Panathinaikos lined up in a 4-2-3-1, with Bernard operating as a creative force behind Ioannidis. The midfield duo of Adam Gnezda Čerin and Rubén Pérez controlled the tempo, allowing the full-backs to push high. Panetolikos attempted to counter through long balls, but the home defense, marshalled by Bart Schenkeveld, remained alert. The clean sheet was rarely in danger.

Standout Performers

Fotis Ioannidis was the standout, his two goals taking his season tally into double figures and boosting his position in the Greek Super League top scorers chart. Bernard was equally influential, providing an assist and a goal. For Panetolikos, goalkeeper Giannis Anestis made several saves to keep the score respectable.

Table Impact

The win lifts Panathinaikos closer to the summit of the Greek Super League standings, keeping pace with the early pacesetters. Panetolikos remain in the lower half, and their search for consistency continues. The head-to-head record now heavily favors Panathinaikos, who have won the last five meetings between the sides.