AEK Athens draws 1-1 against Kifisia following early substitution

AEK Athens drew 1-1 against Kifisia after failing to secure a lead following Varga’s 63rd-minute goal. The match was marked by an unusually early tactical substitution by manager Mário Nikolić, who replaced Mauritanian winger Aboubakar Koïta in the 29th minute.

Koïta was substituted after receiving a yellow card in the 18th minute and appearing to risk a second dismissal. This early intervention is noted as a rare occurrence for the club, with the last similar first-half tactical change dating back to January 2020 under former coach Massimo Carrera.

The recent dip in Koïta’s performance contrasts with his highly successful previous season, where he became a pivotal player for AEK, contributing ten goals and four assists across 52 appearances in domestic and European competitions.