Former Greece and Olympiacos defender Paraskevas Antzas dies aged 49
Former Greece and Olympiacos defender Paraskevas Antzas has died at the age of 49 following a diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
The debilitating condition is the most common form of motor neurone disease, progressively affecting motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord.
The former international earned 26 caps for his country and was a familiar presence in European competition throughout his career.
During a highly successful professional spell, the centre-back secured seven Super League titles and three Greek Cups across two stints in Piraeus.
A distinguished career in Piraeus
He initially joined the Greek giants from Xanthi in 1998, ushering in a dominant period of domestic success.
The defender surprisingly stepped away from football in 2003 for family reasons before returning to action with his hometown club Doxa Drama.
Despite featuring heavily in the qualifying campaign, he missed out on the squad that famously won the 2004 European Championship.
He later returned to Olympiacos in 2007, where he continued to compete in the Champions League and ultimately represented his nation at Euro 2008.
Tributes pour in for the defender
Olympiacos paid their respects to their former player in a heartfelt statement, acknowledging his profound impact on and off the pitch.
“Olympiacos FC, with a sense of sorrow, bids farewell to a great man and footballer, Paraskevas Antzas, who honoured the red and white jersey with passion, strength and dignity.”
The club added that his authoritative presence left a lasting impression on everyone who worked alongside him.
“We express our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. Let the soil that will cover it be light.”
He officially called time on his playing days in 2009 via an announcement on the club’s website.
Supporters have since taken to social media to share their condolences, describing the 49-year-old as one of the most underrated players in modern Greek football history.