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Greek flags and Grand Finals: Why Melbourne Victory feels like home for Giovanni Savarese

Shortly after taking charge as the eleventh full-time head coach in Melbourne Victory's history, Giovanni Savarese witnessed his squad defeat Kingborough Lions in the Australia Cup before visiting Albert Park to observe Adelaide United. Attending the match at Lakeside Stadium, the Venezuelan tactician saw South Melbourne pull off a 2-1 upset against Adelaide.

The vibrant atmosphere, marked by Greek flags celebrating the 68-year-old outfit's heritage, prompted Savarese to recall his time as a nineteen-year-old playing for Greek American Atlas Astoria in New York.

The unexpected encounter set the stage for an unprecedented showdown, as Victory are scheduled to clash with South Melbourne on October 10 in the Australia Cup decider, expected to take place at AAMI Park. Beyond battling for a trophy and qualification for the upcoming Asian Champions League Two, the encounter will mark the very first competitive meeting between these two major Melbourne-based adversaries.