AEK Athens FC vs Aris Thessalonikis Match Recap - Nov 23, 2025

AEK Athens FC Continues Title Charge with Narrow Victory Over Aris Thessalonikis

AEK Athens FC's 1-0 victory over Aris Thessalonikis solidifies their position in the title race, showcasing their defensive resilience and tactical discipline. The win marks AEK's third consecutive league victory, pushing them to 22 points and maintaining their third-place standing. This result contrasts sharply with Aris, who remain stagnant at 13 points, languishing in seventh place after another disappointing outing.

Zini's late goal in the 77th minute was the difference-maker, but it was AEK's overall performance that truly defined the match. Dominating possession with 62%, AEK controlled the tempo and dictated play throughout the contest. Their ability to maintain ball control has been a hallmark of their recent form, as evidenced by their impressive statistics over the last five matches, where they averaged 18 shots per game and maintained a shot accuracy above 50%.

Pineda has emerged as a key figure for AEK, consistently linking play between midfield and attack. His contributions have been vital in recent matches, including a standout performance against Shamrock Rovers where he showcased his vision and passing accuracy. Pineda's ability to create chances has been instrumental in AEK's attacking strategy, allowing them to capitalize on defensive lapses from opponents like Aris.

Aris struggled to find their rhythm once again, failing to register a single shot on target until late in the match. Their inability to create meaningful chances reflects a broader trend of inconsistency that has plagued them this season. With only three wins from ten league matches, Aris has found themselves mired in a scoring drought, managing just one goal in their last three outings across all competitions. The pressure is mounting on coach Manuel Enrique Jiménez Jiménez as he seeks to revive his team's fortunes.

Morón, who had been expected to lead the line for Aris, continues to struggle with form. After netting just one goal in his last five matches, his lack of impact has left Aris searching for answers. The team's reliance on him to spark their attack has become increasingly evident, yet without support from other players, they have failed to capitalize on opportunities.

Defensively, AEK's backline held firm against Aris' sporadic attacks. The combination of Moukoudi and Relvas proved effective in neutralizing any threats posed by Aris' forwards. Their organization and communication were key in maintaining a clean sheet, which is becoming a trend for AEK as they have now recorded three consecutive shutouts in league play.

The contrast between AEK's recent form and Aris' struggles is stark. AEK has transformed potential into points, while Aris finds themselves unable to convert possession into goals. This match served as a microcosm of their respective seasons: AEK is building momentum and confidence, while Aris is grappling with self-doubt and frustration.

Looking ahead, AEK will face a challenging encounter against Panathinaikos next week. Their current trajectory suggests they are well-positioned to continue their title challenge if they maintain this level of performance. Meanwhile, Aris must regroup quickly before facing Larisa, as another poor result could further jeopardize their season and put additional pressure on the coaching staff.

The implications of this match extend beyond just points; it highlights the growing divide between teams at the top and those struggling to find form. AEK Athens FC is not just winning; they are establishing themselves as serious contenders for the title, while Aris Thessalonikis must confront the reality of their situation and find a way to turn things around before it's too late.