Greek Manager Secures Win and Avoids Anthem Controversy Ahead of Nations League Clash with Ireland

Ivan Jovanovic, the Serbian-born Greek manager, took charge of the Greek national team with a notable display of national pride. Despite being born in what was once Yugoslavia, Jovanovic has embraced Greece as his home since his arrival as a player in the 1980s. He seamlessly sang the Greek national anthem before Greece’s first game under his leadership, a 2-0 victory over Finland in Athens, and conducted all his media interactions in Greek. “It makes sense to sing the national anthem,” Jovanovic said after the win. “I’ve lived here for so many years, my children were born here; if I didn’t know it, it would be absurd. I am proud to be here and will do everything to help the team.”

The Greek anthem, Hymn To Liberty, is renowned for its spirited and dramatic verses, reflecting historical struggles for freedom with lines like “Go forth to the fight, seeking freedom or death.” While no lives were lost in Greece’s match against Finland, the victory signals a potential resurgence for the Greek team after their disappointment of missing out on Euro 2024 to Georgia.

Jovanovic, who inherited a team largely unchanged from his predecessor Gus Poyet, has managed to restore the squad’s confidence. Despite using many of the same players who suffered a playoff loss to Georgia, Jovanovic’s influence has led to a strong performance, with Greece taking a 2-0 lead by halftime and securing an easy win.

The rivalry between Greece and Ireland has intensified over the past year, with Greece achieving two wins over Stephen Kenny’s Ireland, and Poyet’s tenure marked by a series of public spats with the Irish side. Now, as the Nations League resumes with two more encounters—first in Dublin and then in Athens—the Greeks face Ireland with renewed optimism under Jovanovic.

Having played and managed extensively in Greece, including stints at four Greek clubs and one in Cyprus, Jovanovic is well-versed in Greek football. His familiarity with the local scene and his popularity among players, media, and fans have positioned him as a promising successor to Poyet.

Jovanovic expressed satisfaction with his first competitive win but acknowledged areas for improvement. “We need to address many issues during the games, but I saw the players giving their best. The result is what matters. We have talent and players who can handle the national team’s demands,” he said before traveling to Dublin. “We have a mix of talented young players and experienced veterans. We aim for results and representing this country positively. Despite some challenges, we are learning and improving. The victory gives us the time to work calmly.”

As Greece prepares to face Ireland again, Jovanovic’s focused approach and deep understanding of Greek football offer hope for continued success.

Πηγή: GCT–Bill Kouras