AEK Athens has put itself in a strong position to qualify for the Europa Conference League quarter-finals after a dominant 4-0 victory over NK Celje in Slovenia [cite:]. The first leg of the round of 16 saw Cameroonian defender Harold Moukoudi distinguish himself by scoring his team's fourth goal [cite:].
A starter in the defense set up by coach Marko Nikolić, Moukoudi actively participated in his team's domination [cite:]. Barnabás Varga opened the scoring in the 3rd minute, setting the tone for a match that the Greeks quickly controlled [cite:]. Aboubakary Koita doubled the lead in the 33rd minute, extending the gap before the break [cite:]. Mijat Gaćinović increased the score just before half-time, bringing the score to 0-3 [cite:].
Upon returning from the locker room, Celje tried to react, but the Slovenian hopes were definitively dashed by Harold Moukoudi's goal [cite:]. The Cameroonian scored AEK's fourth goal, sealing an important away victory [cite:].
With this success, AEK Athens is favorably positioned before the return match, scheduled for March 19 at the Opap Arena [cite:]. Qualification for the quarter-finals is now within reach for the Greek club, which was able to count on a decisive Harold Moukoudi.
Harold Moukoudi, born on November 27, 1997, is a Cameroonian international and plays as a central defender. His career has taken him from Saint-Étienne to AEK Athens, via Middlesbrough. In May 2023, he won the Greek championship with AEK, as well as the Greek Cup, thus achieving the double.
AEK Athens can approach the return match with confidence, thanks to its four-goal advantage and the solid performance of its defense, led by Moukoudi. The prospect of qualifying for the quarter-finals of the Europa Conference League is more relevant than ever.
The return match will therefore take place on March 19 at the Opap Arena, where AEK Athens will attempt to validate its ticket for the quarter-finals of the competition.
