OFI Crete qualifies for Europa League League Phase

OFI Crete has secured its first-ever qualification for the UEFA Europa League League Phase after defeating CSKA Sofia in the playoffs. Following a 3-0 victory in the first leg, the Cretan team won the second leg 2-0 in Sofia to confirm their advancement.

Ahead of the decisive match in Bulgaria, OFI owner Michalis Bousis delivered an emotional locker room speech to motivate the players. In the recorded address, Bousis urged the squad to believe in themselves, stating, “You didn't get this far for nothing. You got this far to win. You got this far to go further.” He encouraged the players to be proud of the history they are building and to enjoy the moment.

In the Europa League League Phase, OFI Crete is scheduled to host Bayer Leverkusen, Anderlecht, Lech Poznan, and Hoffenheim, while facing Benfica, Rennes, Sturm Graz, and Hapoel Beer Sheva in away fixtures.