Nair Tiknizyan Makes Successful Greek League Debut

Armenia national team defender Nair Tiknizyan made his first appearance for Olympiacos in the Greek league. The Matchday 1 clash against Atromitos ended in a 1-0 victory for the Piraeus club.

Tiknizyan came on as a substitute in the 57th minute and took up his usual position at left-back. The Armenian footballer noticeably added energy down his flank, regularly joining the attack.

SofaScore rated Tiknizyan’s performance at 7.1. His rival for the left-back position, Bruno Onyemaechi, who started the match, received a rating of 6.7.

Tiknizyan’s match statistics:

• Key passes — 1;
• Big chances created — 1;
• Crosses — 1 successful out of 3;
• Possession lost — 5;
• Clearances — 1;
• Recoveries — 2;
• Duels — 2 won out of 4;
• Fouls — 1.

Tiknizyan’s appearance also received positive reviews in Greece. With his very first touch, he sent Gelson Martins into the penalty area, after which the Portuguese winger’s cross resulted in a corner.

Later, Tiknizyan was heavily involved in another dangerous Olympiacos attack. Nair and Roca combined on the left flank before a cross found Ayoub El Kaabi, whose shot was saved by the Atromitos goalkeeper.

Greek observers particularly highlighted the Armenian defender’s attacking style:

“Nair Tiknizyan was a real breath of fresh air: he constantly gets forward and plays very aggressively. He is also quick. He will be very useful on the left flank. Having an attack-minded full-back really makes a big difference.”

Olympiacos secured the victory thanks to David Carmo’s goal in the 82nd minute. Two minutes earlier, El Kaabi had failed to convert a penalty.

Tiknizyan, it should be recalled, joined Olympiacos from Red Star Belgrade for €5 million.

The Armenian wore the No. 71 shirt with “Tiki” on the back.