AEK Athens secures victory against Zwolle in pre-season friendly

AEK Athens defeated the Dutch club PEC Zwolle with a score of 3-2 during a pre-season friendly match held on July 26, 2026. After a four-day break, the Greek team returned to the Netherlands to continue their preparation under coach Marko Nikolic. Barnabas Varga was the standout performer, scoring two headers in the 68th and 87th minutes to secure the comeback, while Aboubakary Koita opened the scoring for AEK in the 33rd minute. Despite the victory, the team exhibited defensive vulnerabilities, particularly when facing counter-attacks.

This match serves as part of a series of friendlies, following previous results including wins against De Graafschap and Groningen, and a goalless draw against Vitesse. Thomas Strakosha remains sidelined due to an injury sustained at the end of last season. The team is preparing for the Superbet Super Cup final against OFI on August 12, which marks their first official competitive encounter of the upcoming season.