Births on January 22

Nikos Anastopoulos, Greek footballer and manager

Nikos Anastopoulos: A Prolific Icon of Greek Football

Nikos Anastopoulos (Greek: Νίκος Αναστόπουλος; born on 22 January 1958) is a revered figure in Greek football, a former professional footballer widely celebrated as one of the most prolific and influential strikers of his generation. Dominating the Greek league throughout the 1980s, he etched his name into the annals of the sport, earning recognition as one of the greatest strikers in the entire history of Greek football.

Dominance in the 1980s Greek League

Anastopoulos's era was defined by his incredible goal-scoring prowess, which made him a standout in the highly competitive Greek First Division (now Super League Greece). His ability to consistently find the back of the net was unparalleled for much of the decade, making him a constant threat and a nightmare for opposing defences. The 1980s represented a vibrant period for Greek football, and Anastopoulos's prolific scoring significantly contributed to the excitement and popularity of the league.

The All-Time Leading Scorer for Greece's National Team

Perhaps his most enduring legacy on the international stage is his remarkable record with the Greek national football team. With an astounding 29 goals in 73 appearances, Nikos Anastopoulos stands as the all-time top scorer for Greece. This extraordinary achievement underscores his consistent performance and pivotal role for his country over a significant period, a record that has remained unbroken for decades and highlights his unparalleled contribution to the national side.

A Legend at Olympiacos Piraeus

Anastopoulos's club career reached its zenith during his tenure at Olympiacos, widely known as "Thrylos" (The Legend), one of Greece's most successful and prestigious football clubs. He is rightfully considered one of the greatest players in Olympiacos history, where his impact was immense. Over 291 official games for the Greek powerhouse, he netted an impressive 159 goals, contributing significantly to the club's success. During his time, Olympiacos secured four Greek championships (1980–81, 1981–82, 1982–83, 1986–87) and one Greek Cup (1989–90), cementing his status as a club icon.

A testament to his exceptional goal-scoring ability, Anastopoulos achieved international acclaim by winning the prestigious European Bronze Boot in the 1982–83 season. This award recognizes the third highest league goalscorer across all top-flight European leagues. In that remarkable season, he scored 29 goals, placing him just behind the joint winners of the European Golden Boot, Fernando Gomes (Porto) and Oleg Blokhin (Dynamo Kyiv), who both scored 36 goals. This individual honour solidified his reputation not just within Greece, but also across the continent.

Transition to Football Management

Following a distinguished playing career, Nikos Anastopoulos seamlessly transitioned into football management, bringing his vast experience and tactical understanding to the dugout. His managerial career has seen him lead various clubs, predominantly within Greece's football pyramid. Most recently, he managed Kalamata, a club competing in Super League 2, Greece's second-tier professional football division. His continued involvement in the sport underscores his lifelong dedication to Greek football.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nikos Anastopoulos

What is Nikos Anastopoulos primarily known for?

Nikos Anastopoulos is primarily known as one of the most prolific strikers in Greek football history, the all-time leading scorer for the Greek national team, and a legendary player for Olympiacos.

What is Nikos Anastopoulos's record for the Greek national team?

He is the all-time top scorer for the Greek national football team, having scored 29 goals in 73 international appearances.

Which major individual award did Nikos Anastopoulos win?

Nikos Anastopoulos won the European Bronze Boot in the 1982–83 season, an award given to the third-highest league goalscorer in European top-flight football.

What is Nikos Anastopoulos doing now?

After retiring as a player, Nikos Anastopoulos embarked on a career as a football manager. His most recent managerial role was with Super League 2 club Kalamata.