“We gave our soul for him” - Greece match-winner Vangelis Pavlidis shares emotions after win against England and pays tribute to George Baldock
Greece international Vangelis Pavlidis shared an emotional message for former Sheffield United defender George Baldock, who sadly passed away on October 9. Baldock, born in the United Kingdom, played international football for Greece and had represented them in 12 matches.
Speaking to the media after his match-winning brace in a 2-1 win against England, Pavlidis paid tribute to his former teammate. He added that the squad didn't want to celebrate the win in Baldock's honor, saying (via GOAL):
"It was a very special day and match for us. Our thoughts are with George. We are professionals and had to play the match. We gave our soul for him tonight. Today is not a day to talk about football. He was part of our team. We will miss him very much. Also to wish strength to his family and not talk about football. The whole day was numb. We won tonight and don't want to celebrate. There are just no words."
Greece coach Ivan Jovanovic hailed his players for delivering a decisive performance after the huge personal loss. He said:
"At such moments football comes second. The time he was with the team he made his mark and that was visible in the way the players played today."
Greece stunned England at Wembley on Thursday, October 10, beating them 2-1. Vangelis Pavlidis scored twice in the second half, including a 94th-minute winner. Jude Bellingham had scored for England in the 87th minute.
What happeend to George Baldock?
George Baldock was found dead in the swimming pool of his house in Glyfada, southern Athens on Wednesday, October 9. The former defender 'most likely' died by drowning, as per the police, who have initially ruled out any foul play (via The Guardian).
His family released a statement that read (via BBC):
"We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family we are in shock at this terrible loss."
Baldock's club Panathinaikos also released a statement that read:
"We are shocked, we are shocked by the loss of our George. The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock."
Reuters have reported that the police tried to resuscitate Baldock but failed with their best efforts.