Michalis Bouzis: 'My Team is the MVP, I Dedicate it to My Father' as OFI Clinches Greek Cup
Translated from Greek, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- OFI defeated PAOK 3-2 to win the Greek Cup for the 2025-26 season.
- OFI owner Michalis Bouzis expressed pride and dedicated the victory to his father.
- Bouzis emphasized that the team, not an individual, is the MVP, highlighting OFI's ability to dream and achieve.
In a thrilling conclusion to the Greek Cup season 2025-26, OFI has emerged victorious, clinching the title with a hard-fought 3-2 win over PAOK in a dramatic final. The victory was met with intense emotion from the club's owner, Michalis Bouzis, who was visibly moved by his team's achievement. This cup win represents a significant milestone for OFI, demonstrating their capability to compete at the highest level and secure major silverware.
I am proud of all the players, of my family, of all of Crete. We were thirsty for the Cup. We showed that a team like OFI can dream and win a Cup.
Bouzis, the driving force behind the Cretan team, radiated pride and joy, showering praise upon his players. He stressed that this triumph belongs to everyone associated with OFI – the players, the staff, and the passionate fans, particularly those in Crete. The hunger for the cup was palpable, and OFI proved that a team like theirs can indeed harbor aspirations and achieve the ultimate prize. The final itself was a testament to the competitive spirit of Greek football, with OFI overcoming a strong opponent in PAOK.
We were in the final, we played against a very good team like Olympiacos, it was a good experience. PAOK is a big team, a good team, but today was our day, I have no words to say.
Speaking after the match, Bouzis articulated a profound sentiment: "My team is the MVP, I dedicate it to my father." This statement encapsulates the team-centric philosophy that guided OFI to this success. He underscored that while individual talent is recognized, the collective effort and spirit of the entire squad were the true catalysts for victory. This perspective resonates deeply within Greek sports culture, where team cohesion and shared passion are often celebrated as much as individual brilliance. The win is not just a trophy; it's a validation of OFI's journey and a powerful message of what can be achieved through unity and determination.
I wasn't afraid. The only thing I wanted was for us to equalize to get the upper hand to win it.
OFI's journey to this cup victory is a story of ambition and perseverance. Bouzis's words, "We were thirsty for the Cup. We showed that a team like OFI can dream and win a Cup," reflect the club's aspirations to write new chapters in their history. This victory serves as a powerful inspiration, not only for OFI but for clubs across Greece, proving that with vision, dedication, and a strong sense of community, even the most ambitious dreams can be realized on the football pitch.
We want to continue to write history.
Originally published by Ta Nea in Greek. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.