Aris Thessaloniki 3-2 Volos NPS – Aris Thessaloniki emerged victorious in a thrilling five-goal encounter against Volos NPS in the Greek Super League on October 12, 2026, at the Kleanthis Vikelidis Stadium. The home side twice surrendered the lead before a late winner sealed all three points in a match that showcased attacking football at its best.
Match Overview
Aris started on the front foot and took the lead in the 18th minute through Dimitris Emmanouilidis, who finished calmly after a neat exchange with Luis Palma. Volos responded well and equalised in first-half stoppage time when Marios Vrousai headed home from a corner. The second half was end-to-end. Aris regained the lead in the 58th minute with a stunning free-kick from Luis Palma, only for Volos to level again in the 72nd minute through Theodoros Tsirigotis. Just as the match seemed destined for a draw, Giannis Fetfatzidis scored an 88th-minute winner for Aris, sending the home crowd into raptures.
Key Moments
- 18' – Dimitris Emmanouilidis opens the scoring for Aris with a low finish.
- 45+2' – Marios Vrousai equalises for Volos with a powerful header.
- 58' – Luis Palma curls a free-kick into the top corner to restore Aris's lead.
- 72' – Theodoros Tsirigotis slots home from close range to make it 2-2.
- 88' – Giannis Fetfatzidis scores the winner with a composed finish inside the box.
Tactical Analysis
Aris Thessaloniki deployed a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Fetfatzidis operating as the creative hub behind the striker. Their full-backs pushed high, stretching Volos's defence. Volos NPS, using a 4-4-2, looked to hit on the counter and were dangerous from set-pieces. However, Aris's superior individual quality in the final third ultimately told. The home side's pressing forced several turnovers, leading to goals. Volos will rue their inability to hold onto their equalisers, as defensive lapses cost them dearly.
Standout Performances
Luis Palma (Aris) – A goal and an assist, the Honduran was unplayable at times. Giannis Fetfatzidis (Aris) – The veteran playmaker rolled back the years with a match-winning display. Marios Vrousai (Volos) – Scored one and caused problems all evening with his direct running. Theodoros Tsirigotis (Volos) – Another bright spark for the visitors, his goal was well-taken.
What the Result Means
Aris Thessaloniki move up to 4th in the Greek Super League standings with 14 points from 8 matches. Volos NPS remain 10th with 7 points, still searching for consistency. The win keeps Aris within touching distance of the European places, while Volos are looking over their shoulder at the relegation play-off zone. Aris's next fixture is a tough away trip to PAOK, while Volos host Atromitos.
Match Statistics
- Possession: Aris 58% – Volos 42%
- Shots (on target): Aris 16 (8) – Volos 10 (5)
- Corners: Aris 7 – Volos 4
- Fouls: Aris 12 – Volos 14
- Yellow cards: Aris 2 – Volos 3

