AEK Athens Push for Conference League Qualification with Thrilling Victory

AEK Athens Secure Crucial Conference League Win

AEK Athens achieved a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against Universitatea Craiova on 18 December 2025, demonstrating their resilience in the UEFA Conference League. The Greek club currently sits fourth in the league phase standings, whilst victory guarantees they avoid the knockout play-offs lottery.

The Athens-based club has established itself as a formidable force in European competition this season. The 2025-26 season marks the 102nd year in AEK Athens’ existence and their 65th competitive campaign, competing in the Super League, Greek Cup and Conference League.

Strong Domestic Form Continues

In the Greek Super League, AEK Athens currently occupies second place with 11 wins, 1 draw and 2 losses from 14 matches, accumulating 34 points and trailing leaders Olympiakos Piraeus by just one point. Their attacking prowess has been evident throughout the campaign, with the squad demonstrating both defensive solidity and clinical finishing.

Manager Marko Nikolić’s side won 5-0 at Panetolikos recently, extending their unbeaten run to 11 matches across all competitions. This consistency has been crucial to their success on multiple fronts this season.

European Ambitions and Future Prospects

The Conference League employs a 36-club single-standings format, with the top eight teams progressing directly to the round of 16 in March, whilst teams placed ninth to 24th advance to two-leg knockout playoffs in February.

With their squad featuring notable players including forwards Luka Jović and Frantzdy Pierrot, alongside an experienced defensive line, AEK Athens possess the quality to make a significant impact in European competition. Their historic achievements include reaching the UEFA Cup semi-finals in 1976-77, and they remain one of Greece’s most decorated clubs with 32 national titles.

Significance for Greek Football

AEK Athens’ strong performance across domestic and European competitions reinforces the strength of Greek football on the continental stage. Their pursuit of Conference League qualification represents not only the club’s ambitions but also the growing competitive nature of European football’s third-tier competition. As the season progresses, supporters will be hoping their team can maintain momentum and secure automatic qualification to the knockout rounds, avoiding the uncertainty of playoff fixtures.