Cypriot Adonis Pelagias, 27, of Arameiska Syrianska IF, went viral in Sweden thanks to an impressive goal from a very long distance. Seeing the goalkeeper out of position, he tried the unexpected and was vindicated, scoring a goal that made the rounds on social media in Sweden.
“There was a moment when I saw the goalkeeper outside the goal. I didn’t think much about it, I just decided to try it. In training I often take shots like that but I don’t often find the target (laughs). I told the midfielders to try because I often saw the goalkeeper outside his goal. At that moment they laid the ball out to me and all I had in mind was to hit it hard and correctly, so that it went over him and ended up in the goal. Luckily it went in and it happened and viral at the end.
Is it something you work on often?
Yes, I always look at the goalkeeper. If I see that he is out of position, I try it. I like to take initiatives.
About your team's progress?
Last year we were Division 2, but we fell and now we're playing Division 3. We started very strongly, we scored over 20 goals in the first games and we are on the way to promotion, although the division is difficult because only one team is promoted. There is a good core in the team, with players who have returned and are helping significantly.
Tell us a little about your life in Sweden.
I have lived here for about 13 years, I came when I was 15. For a while I returned to Cyprus, where I played in Orpheus and did my military service, but then I returned to Sweden permanently. It is a country with many opportunities, especially if you have a goal and want to develop. The daily life is different from the Mediterranean countries, and the most difficult part is the darkness and the lack of sun, but if you are focused on your goals, you can achieve a lot. You can move up professionally.
Do you watch Cypriot football?
Mainly Omonia Nicosia, because of my father.
How did you see the champion Omonia this year?
They have a very good team and quality players who can make a difference. Because of my position, as a centre-back, I like players who have courage, like Panagiotou and Koulibaly who plays hard and knows how to hold his position well, but in general there are several who stand out, like Semedo, Maric and Mahe.
Do you think he can reach the Champions League?
I believe that it is no longer impossible. Several Cypriot teams have already succeeded. The idea has matured. With proper work and support, it can succeed.
Your personal goal?
To continue to improve and help my team and of course score more goals like that... maybe next time from even further away, maybe from the locker room (laughs)
