FC Groningen loses 2-1 to AEK Athens after red‑card tackle

FC Groningen hosted Greek side AEK Athens in a pre‑season friendly that ended 2-1 to the visitors. The match featured a minute’s silence for the late referee Rob Dieperink. In the 55th minute AEK defender Filipe Relvas received a straight red card for a hard tackle on Groningen midfielder Travis Hernes, prompting the stadium speaker to remind everyone that it was a friendly match. Oskar Zawada gave Groningen an early lead, but AEK equalised before halftime. In the final minutes Dimitris Kaloskamis scored the winner, sealing a 2-1 victory for the Greek side.

Both clubs noted that despite the physical incident no serious injuries were reported, and Groningen emphasised their focus on preparing for the upcoming Eredivisie season.