LAST UPDATE: 11:08.
Nikos Sarganis died at the age of 70 years.
The veteran international goalkeeper was hospitalized in a coma at the hospital “Erikos Dunan” and was fighting cancer for the last time.
The “Ghost” of Greek stadiums began his career in Elysiakos, continued in Kastoria, sat between the goal posts of Olympiakos and Panathinaikos and was decisive in the European course of Athens.
The Night The Phantom Came
Nikos Sarganis was given the title “Phantom” after his outstanding performance on his debut for the Greek national team on 15 October 1980 in a 1-0 win over Denmark in a 1982 World Cup qualifier.
That night, Sarganis made some amazing saves, a lightning quick reaction to a close volley from the famous Alan Simonsen, prompting Danish journalists to call him ”The Phantom”. he competed with the Men’s national team until 1991 in a total of 58 games.
Elysiakos: From attacking goalkeeper
He started his career at Elysiakos and joined in 1966 at the age of 12 and in 1969 at the age of 15 he made his debut in the men’s team, where he played without a substitute goalkeeper.
He first started as a striker and started competing as a goalkeeper after the advice and persuasion of former international goalkeeper Christos Riba.
In Elysiako, he had an excellent run in the 2nd National Championship, where he scored a long streak of games without conceding a goal.
Kastoria: The Cup
In 1977 he went to Kastoria, with whom he made his debut in the First National Team on 11/9/1977.He featured prominently in the team’s remarkable 1979-80 Greek Cup run, which they won by beating Iraklis 5-2.
Olympiacos: The three championships
The appearance brought him to Olympiakos, with whom he won three championships (1980-81, 1981-82, 1982-83) and the Greek Cup (1980-81).
Panathinaikos: The titles and the 1988 final
In 1985 he moved to Panathinaikos, where he played for five seasons, winning two more championships (1985-86, 1989-90) and three Greek Cups (1985-86, 1987-88, 1988-89) .
In the 1988 final, which was decided on penalties, Nikos Sarganis was the protagonist as he accurately executed a penalty and saved two, leading Panathinaikos to victory.
Athenaikos: Cup winners and Manchester United
five years later, in 1990, he moved to Athinaikos, with whom he finished 6th in the league and reached the final of the Greek Cup (1990-91), for the first time in the club’s history, ensuring his participation in the Winners Cup.’ Cup the following season (1991-92), where he was drawn with Manchester United.
In both games, Nikos Sarganis was the protagonist and with his great saves, especially in the “Old Trafford” replay, he kept a clean sheet. Both matches ended 0–0 and the second match went to extra time, where United eventually won 2–0.
His record
He is the only footballer to compete in the Greek Cup final with four different clubs and the first to win it with three different teams.
After retiring from active action, Nikos Sarganis pursued a coaching career.
He had an A’ football coach diploma and a goalkeeper trainer in the UEFA training team.
In the May and June 2023 parliamentary elections, he was placed tenth on the PASOK-KINAL State ballot.
Source: RES
How did Nikos Sarganis influence the next generation of football players in Greece?
Time.news Interview: Remembering Nikos Sarganis
Editor: Good afternoon, and welcome to Time.news. today we have a special segment to honor the legacy of a remarkable athlete, Nikos Sarganis, who unfortunately passed away at the age of 70 after a brave battle with cancer. Joining us is Dr. Elena georgiou, a sports historian and expert on Greek football. Dr. Georgiou, thank you for being with us today.
Dr. Georgiou: Thank you for having me.It’s an honor to discuss the life and career of such an significant figure in Greek football.
Editor: Let’s begin with the man himself. Sarganis was known as the “Ghost” on the pitch. Can you elucidate how he earned that moniker?
Dr. Georgiou: Absolutely. His debut performance was nothing short of legendary. He exhibited remarkable agility and reflexes, making saves that seemed unfeasible.To spectators and commentators alike, he appeared almost supernatural at times, hence the nickname “Phantom.” It was a reflection of his ability to be everywhere at once, his presence in the goal added a sense of security for his teammates.
Editor: His career spanned several top clubs in Greece including Elysiakos, Kastoria, olympiakos, and Panathinaikos. How did his playing style evolve throughout his career?
Dr. Georgiou: Sarganis was versatile. early on, at Elysiakos, he was primarily known for his shot-stopping ability. As he moved to bigger clubs, especially Olympiakos and Panathinaikos, he developed a more thorough game. He became adept at reading the game, commanding his defense, and was known for his leadership on the pitch. His experience and tactical acumen really distinguished him later in his career.
Editor: Many fans remember his decisive role in European competitions. Can you discuss a particular match or moment that highlighted his impact?
Dr. Georgiou: One significant match was during the 1970s when Panathinaikos reached the European Cup final. Sarganis made crucial saves that not only kept the team in the game but also boosted the morale of his teammates. His performance was electric and he became a pivotal figure in that campaign, embodying the spirit of resilience that Greek teams were known for.
Editor: After his retirement,how did Nikos Sarganis stay involved with football,and what kind of legacy did he leave behind?
Dr. Georgiou: Post-retirement, he remained involved in various capacities, including coaching and mentoring younger goalkeepers. His dedication to nurturing talent reflects his love for the game. His legacy is seen not only in his records and accolades but also in the way he inspired generations of players. young goalkeepers in Greece often cite him as a role model.
Editor: His passing marks a significant loss for the football community. How do you see his contributions being remembered in the coming years?
Dr.Georgiou: I believe he will be honored as one of the greats of Greek football. His contributions to the sport,especially in crucial moments of his career,will be celebrated thru tributes,documentaries,and perhaps even memorial matches.The ”Ghost” will always be a cherished part of the Greek football narrative.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Georgiou, for providing such insightful reflections on nikos sarganis. His influence on the sport will certainly resonate for years to come.
Dr. Georgiou: Thank you for having me. It’s important to remember and celebrate the legends like Sarganis who have shaped the game.
Editor: And thank you to our viewers for joining us in paying tribute to this incredible athlete. Stay tuned for more updates and stories on Time.news.