A stunning overhead kick from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. A last minute extra time goal from Youssef El-Arabi. The match between Olympiacos and Arsenal had it all as the Greek team defeated Arsenal 2-1 to proceed into the next Europa League stage.
Olympiacos went ahead just pass half time at the 53′ mark as Pape Abou Cissé headed it into the net from a corner assisted by Mathieu Valbuena.
The anticipated goal by Arsenal did eventually come and it came with glory. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang sent the Gunners into extra time with a stunning overhead kick, bringing the aggregate score to 2-1 for Arsenal.
As the time approached the 120 minute mark, English fans and players pre-empted a celebration as they assumed to proceed to the next round. But Olympiacos striker El-Arabi had other plans, scoring a dramatic late winner in extra-time to knock Arsenal out of the Europa League.
The match ended 2-1 for Olympiacos, but could certainly have seen more goals from both sides. Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang missed a close opportunity in the six yard box at the 120+4′ mark, putting the shot wide. Masouras also had a stunning attempt from outside the box in extra time, beating Arsenal goalkeeper Leno but scraping the top of the bar to deny the goal.
Arsenal boasted 19 shots and 61 percent possession during the match, yet equalling Olympiacos’ 4 shots on target.
The match saw Arsenal defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos go up against a team from his home nation. At the previous tie in Greece, Sokratis spoke about how proud he felt to play on home soil, despite playing for an opposition team.
“Twelve years later I returned to a Greek stadium. Even as an adversary, even as a “stranger” it was a special experience for me that filled me with special emotions. In my football career up until now, moments have been important to me. So I lived and yesterday at such a moment to fight against a Greek team. I only hold what was generous to me as a whole. Some small disagreements just stay out of touch with me!!!”
