AEK Athens Secure Dramatic UEFA Conference League Qualification

Historic Club Reaches European Knockout Stages

AEK Athens produced a remarkable comeback in their final Conference League group match, scoring twice deep into injury time against Universitatea Craiova, with Luka Jovic converting the decisive penalty in the 90+14′ to complete a stunning 3-2 victory. The dramatic win secured the Greek club’s place in the knockout rounds of European competition.

Club’s Rich Heritage and Identity

Established in Athens by Greek refugees from Constantinople in the wake of the Greco-Turkish War (1919–1922), AEK is one of the most successful teams in Greek football, by winning 32 national titles and it is the only club to have won all the competitions organised by the Hellenic Football Federation (13 Greek Championships, 16 Greek Cups, 1 League Cup and 2 Super Cups). The club’s name, Athletic Union of Constantinople, reflects its refugee origins and deep connection to Byzantine heritage.

According to Sky Sports, AEK have around 30% of all Greek football fans, with their fan base in Greece believed to be over 2 million. This passionate support base has stood by the club through both triumphant and challenging periods.

Generous Reward for Qualification Success

The win saw AEK finish third in their overall standings with 13 points, edging into the knockout rounds in dramatic fashion, and club owner Marios Iliopoulos rewarded the squad with a generous €500,000 bonus. A video of the announcement in the dressing room quickly went viral, capturing the jubilant celebrations and emotional reactions of the players.

Looking Ahead: AEK’s European Journey

The 2025–26 season is the 102nd season in the existence of AEK Athens F.C. and the 65th competitive season and eleventh consecutive in the top flight of Greek football, as they compete in the Super League, the Greek Cup and the Conference League. The qualification marks another chapter in the club’s storied European history, building on past achievements including their memorable UEFA Cup semi-final appearance in 1977.

For AEK Athens supporters, this qualification represents more than sporting success—it continues the proud tradition of a club founded by refugees who have built one of Greece’s most beloved football institutions. As they progress to the knockout stages, the entire Greek football community watches with anticipation to see how far this historic club can go in European competition.