Alexandros Tziolis, Greek footballer

Alexandros Tziolis: A Comprehensive Look at Greece's Defensive Midfield Maestro

Alexandros Tziolis (Greek: Αλέξανδρος Τζιόλης), born on February 13, 1985, is a distinguished Greek former professional footballer widely recognized for his unwavering presence as a defensive midfielder. Throughout his career, Tziolis carved out a reputation as a diligent, tactically astute, and physically imposing player, crucial for breaking up opposition attacks and providing a defensive shield for his teams.

A Stalwart in the Midfield: Playing Style and Attributes

As a defensive midfielder, Alexandros Tziolis excelled in key aspects that defined his role. His tall stature and physical strength made him highly effective in aerial duels and challenges for possession. Known for his exceptional positional awareness, Tziolis consistently found himself in the right place at the right time to intercept passes, make crucial tackles, and generally disrupt the flow of the opponent's play. While not primarily a goal-scorer, his contributions were invaluable in linking defense with attack through simple, efficient passing, often initiating offensive movements after winning back possession. This dedication to the defensive aspects of the game earned him a reputation as a reliable and hard-working anchor in the midfield.

A Distinguished Club Career Journey Across European Leagues

Alexandros Tziolis's professional club journey was both extensive and diverse, spanning several top European leagues. His career began in Greece with Panionios, where he emerged through the youth ranks before making his senior debut. His impressive performances quickly led him to Panathinaikos, one of Greece's premier clubs, where he further honed his skills. Following his successful stint in Greece, Tziolis embarked on a journey that saw him play for notable clubs in major European leagues. He experienced German Bundesliga football with Werder Bremen, Serie A in Italy with Siena, La Liga in Spain with Racing Santander, and even Ligue 1 in France with AS Monaco. Later in his career, he returned to Greece with PAOK FC and also played in Turkey for Kayserispor, before concluding his playing days in Saudi Arabia with Al-Fayha, showcasing a truly global footballing resume.

Alexandros Tziolis's Illustrious International Career with Greece

Alexandros Tziolis's international career with the Greece national team is one of the most significant chapters of his professional life. He proudly represented his country as a Greek international for a remarkable 13-year period, from his debut in 2005 until his international retirement in 2018. During this extensive tenure, he became a central figure, earning the respect of teammates and fans alike.

International Caps and Goals

Tziolis accumulated an impressive 75 caps for the Greece national team, highlighting his consistent selection and importance over more than a decade. Despite his primarily defensive role, he managed to score two goals for his country, a testament to his occasional forays forward and set-piece presence.

International Tenure and Legacy

His journey with the national team spanned a pivotal era for Greek football, bridging generations of players. Tziolis was a cornerstone in the defensive midfield, providing stability and experience, especially during major tournament campaigns.

Major Tournament Appearances and Key Contributions

Alexandros Tziolis played a crucial role in Greece's participation in several of the sport's most prestigious international tournaments, contributing significantly to the team's efforts on the global stage.

• UEFA Euro 2008: Tziolis was part of the Greece squad that competed in the European Championship held in Austria and Switzerland. While Greece, as defending champions, did not progress past the group stage, Tziolis gained valuable experience at the highest level of continental football.
• 2010 FIFA World Cup (South Africa): He played a vital role in Greece's second-ever appearance at the FIFA World Cup. His performances in the heart of the midfield were integral to the team's efforts in South Africa.
• 2014 FIFA World Cup (Brazil): Arguably his most significant tournament, Tziolis was a key member of the Greek squad that made history by advancing to the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup for the very first time. His defensive capabilities and experience were crucial to Greece's resilient performances, which saw them exceed expectations and capture the hearts of many football fans.

Tziolis's consistent presence in these high-stakes environments underscores his reliability and importance to the national team's tactical setup. His ability to perform under pressure and his unwavering commitment made him a true asset for Greece.

Frequently Asked Questions about Alexandros Tziolis

When was Alexandros Tziolis born?

Alexandros Tziolis was born on February 13, 1985.

What position did Alexandros Tziolis primarily play?

He predominantly played as a defensive midfielder throughout his professional career.

How many international caps did Alexandros Tziolis earn for Greece?

Alexandros Tziolis earned 75 caps for the Greece national team.

Which major international tournaments did Tziolis participate in for Greece?

He appeared in UEFA Euro 2008, the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

When did Alexandros Tziolis retire from international football?

He retired from international football in 2018, concluding a 13-year career with the national team.