Taking into account the latest predictions concerning the coronavirus pandemic, the Super League playoffs and playouts are expected to begin in May, with the campaign subsequently set to be completed in late June.
Last weekend, the Super League playoffs were due to begin with PAOK hosting Olympiacos, AEK competing against Panathinaikos at home and OFI travelling to Thessaloniki to face Aris, but the games were postponed until further notice as a result of the coronavirus epidemic which has disrupted almost every aspect of life across the planet. Olympiacos finished the regular season by remaining undefeated in 26 matches.
Although the virus is continuing to spread, UEFA recently revealed that it is aiming to have all domestic and international competitions completed by June, with UEFA Euro 2020 consequently postponed to 2021 in order to allow the club season to finish. Italy, who have suffered more than any other European country, have stated that they want Serie A to resume on May 3.
The Super League in Greece, if reports provided by several media outlets are to be believed, is hoping for action to restart in the first half of May. The campaign will be completed by the latter stages of June at the latest.
Two rounds will be held each week. It has even been suggested that UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League games will take place at the weekend while league matches are played during the week instead.
All teams in the Super League playoffs will participate in 10 matches as originally planned. Clubs will need to be able to train for at least two weeks before the playoffs and playouts start.
The Ministry of Sport has prohibited teams from conducting training sessions until at least March 27.
At the end of March, a vital call conference will take place between the Super League Board of Directors, in which the fate of the 2019/2020 campaign will be decided. More clarity about when we can expect football to begin again will then be available.
Olympiacos, PAOK, AEK, Panathinaikos, OFI and Aris qualified for the championship playoffs, while Atromitos, AE Larissa, Asteras Tripolis, Lamia, Volos NFC, Xanthi, Panetolikos and Panionios slipped into the relegation playouts.
The Hellenic state is currently heavily promoting a ‘Stay At Home’ program to make sure that the public remains indoors instead of spreading the virus. Cafes, restaurants and even beaches have been closed in attempt to keep everyone at home.
credits: www.agonasport.com
