Following their convincing performance and victory over AEK, Panathinaikos faces Spartak Subotica in Rhodes for their second friendly match of the tournament, with the goal of showcasing even more elements of the philosophy that Zeljko Obradovic wants to instill and taking another step toward game readiness.
Panathinaikos made a positive impression in its first test on the island, defeating AEK 78-56 and showing its intentions early on. Intense defense, pressure on the ball, and a willingness to run the floor were the key characteristics of the “Greens,” who controlled the game for nearly its entire duration.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
The upcoming match against the Serbian champions offers Zoc yet another opportunity to test players and formations, but also to see his team implement more consistently what they’ve been working on in practice. After all, at this stage of the season, the result takes a back seat, with the goal being to gradually establish a competitive identity and improve from game to game.
Despite significant absences (Nan, Sloukas, Hayes-Davis, Rogavopoulos, Fal, and Kouzeloglou), Panathinaikos showed several positive signs, while the new signings also saw significant playing time. Francisco, Badio, Yambousele, and Bonga showed glimpses of their potential, with the former standing out offensively with 13 points and Mantzoukas following with 11.
Against Spartak, the “Greens” will aim to maintain the same defensive focus and intensity they displayed in the first game, while also seeking even greater cohesion on offense. Every friendly match is another piece of the preseason puzzle, and this one is expected to be yet another useful test.
The match is scheduled for Saturday (September 12) at 6:00 p.m.
*photo source: KYPE
