Greek football is once again in mourning after goalkeeper Takis Ikonomopoulos died on Monday night at the age of 82.
Ikonomopoulos, a revered figure in Greek football, had been hospitalized in the intensive care unit of the Red Cross Hospital from early February after suffering a stroke. He was widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in Greek football history, spending 13 years at Panathinaikos.
His passing comes just days after the death of another football great and former teammate, Mimis Domazos. Ikonomopoulos left a unique mark on Greek football, with his name forever etched in the country’s football history.
He played for Panathinaikos in the historic 1971 European Cup final against Ajax, a defining moment for the club. His 13-year spell as the team’s shot-stopper was nothing short of remarkable.
He remains one of the greatest players ever to wear the club’s jersey, with his legacy immortalized in Panathinaikos and Greek football history.
Nicknamed “The Bird” by fans due to his spectacular diving saves, Ikonomopoulos became an icon of the sport. His legendary career was further recognized when the International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) included him in the all-time best XI of Greek football.
In an official statement, Panathinaikos FC bid farewell to the great footballer.
“The Panathinaikos family bids a sorrowful farewell to Takis Ikonomopoulos, who has passed away at the age of 81,” it read while lauding his long and illustrious career at the club he loved.
