Anagennisi Karditsa’s Greek Cup run came to an end on a competitive night at home, as Aris Thessaloniki secured a professional 2-0 victory to book their place in the next round. The Super League side showed their quality when it mattered, while the hosts left the pitch with their heads held high after a committed display.

Match overview

From the opening exchanges, Aris took control of possession and looked to impose themselves on the tie. The visitors patiently built attacks, stretching the Karditsa defensive line and testing the home backline with early crosses. Despite the pressure, Anagennisi remained organised and made it difficult for Aris to find clear-cut chances in the final third.

The breakthrough arrived midway through the first half when Aris converted a well-worked move. A neat interchange on the right side created space for the cross, and the clinical finish gave the home goalkeeper no chance. That goal settled Aris and forced Anagennisi to push forward more boldly, which in turn opened up space on the counter for the Thessaloniki side.

Key moments

• First-half opener: Aris broke the deadlock with a composed finish from inside the box, capping off a patient spell of possession.
• Second goal: The visitors doubled their lead with a swift counter-attack, slicing through a stretched Karditsa backline to seal the win.
• Late resistance: Anagennisi pushed for a consolation goal in the final stages and created a couple of half-chances, but the Aris defence held firm.

Tactical story

Aris’s approach was measured and efficient. Without needing to force the game, they allowed Anagennisi to commit numbers forward and then exploited the resulting space. Their midfield dominated the second balls, while the full-backs provided the width needed to pin the home side deep. Anagennisi, for their part, showed spirit and ran tirelessly, but lacked the cutting edge needed to trouble the Aris goal.

Season impact

The victory keeps Aris Thessaloniki on a positive trajectory in their cup campaign and adds to the momentum they have built in league competition. For Anagennisi Karditsa, elimination from the Greek Cup means attention now turns fully to their league fixtures, where their defensive organisation and determination will be key.