Panathinaikos’ Turkish head coach walks out over controversial banner

Panathinaikos faced Israeli team Maccabi Tel Aviv in a pre-season friendly in Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus, losing 88-75. However, a provocative banner in the stands, referencing the Cyprus Peace Operation with the words “Years of illegal occupation … No one forgets,” overshadowed the match result.

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Ergin Ataman’s strong reaction

In the face of the controversial banner, Ergin Ataman, Panathinaikos head coach did not remain silent. Ataman stormed onto the court shortly after its revelation, angrily confronting the referees and demanding ejection from the game. After the incident, Ataman left the arena.

The Greek media asserted that a foul against Cedi Osman frustrated Ataman and sparked his outburst. However, they also emphasized that the banner display coincided with Ataman’s reaction. The footage clearly shows Ataman telling the referees, “Eject me!”

With Turkish players Cedi Osman and Omer Faruk Yurtseven in the lineup, the Greek team lost the game 88-75 to Maccabi. Yet, the banner controversy took center stage, overshadowing the match itself.