Onyemaechi Shines in Olympiakos’ 6-0 Greek Cup Win Over AEK Athens

Nigerian defender Bruno Onyemaechi played a key role in Olympiakos’ dominant 6-0 victory over AEK Athens in the first leg of their Greek Cup semifinal. The full back successfully neutralized Swedish winger Niclas Eliasson, ensuring that AEK struggled to create meaningful chances.

Onyemaechi credited his Olympiakos teammate Francisco Ortega for providing crucial tactical advice before the match, which helped him contain Eliasson throughout the game. We had spoken with Ortega, and he gave me advice. We knew he was a strong player, so I followed Ortega’s tips, and it helped me a lot,” Onyemaechi told Cosmote TV via Gazzetta Greece.

The Nigerian, who joined Olympiakos from Boavista in January, has quickly adapted to Greek football and demonstrated his defensive quality in this high stakes encounter. His positional discipline, well timed tackles, and composure on the ball contributed to Olympiakos’ solid defensive display.

Olympiakos head coach José Luis Mendilibar urged his team to secure qualification in the first leg, a message that motivated the players. Our coach told us to stay focused, forget about the next match, and finish qualifying today. That was our motivation,” Onyemaechi added.

With such a commanding lead, Olympiakos are now overwhelming favourites to progress to the final as they chase domestic and European silverware.

Editorial

Bruno Onyemaechi’s performance against AEK Athens is a testament to his rapid adaptation to Olympiakos and Greek football. Coming from Portugal’s Boavista, many wondered how he would fit into a new league and system, but his recent displays prove he is settling in well.

What makes this performance even more impressive is his ability to handle a tricky opponent like Niclas Eliasson. The Swedish winger is known for his speed and dribbling ability, but Onyemaechi followed his defensive duties with discipline and tactical awareness. The fact that he sought advice from his teammate Ortega before the game also shows his willingness to learn and improve, a crucial trait for any defender looking to excel at a top club.

Olympiakos’ dominant victory underscores their ambition in the Greek Cup, and having a reliable full-back like Onyemaechi will be key to their success moving forward. If he continues on this trajectory, he could cement his place as a vital part of the squad and even attract attention from bigger European clubs.

For Nigeria, Onyemaechi’s strong performances are also a positive sign. The Super Eagles are always in need of dependable defenders, and if he maintains this form, he could be a valuable option for the national team in future competitions.

As Olympiakos prepare for the second leg, Onyemaechi’s growing confidence will be an asset. His ability to shut down top attackers will be crucial not only in domestic games but also in European competitions where defensive solidity is essential.

Did You Know?

1. Bruno Onyemaechi started his career in Nigeria before moving to Portugal, where he played for Feirense and Boavista.
2. Olympiakos is Greece’s most successful football club, with over 45 league titles.
3. The Greek Cup is one of the country’s most prestigious tournaments, and Olympiakos last won it in 2020.
4. José Luis Mendilibar, Olympiakos’ head coach, previously led Sevilla to the UEFA Europa League title in 2023.
5. Niclas Eliasson, the winger Onyemaechi shut down, has played in top European leagues, including stints in England’s Championship and France’s Ligue 1.