Greece's National Team pays tribute to George Baldock following his tragic demise

In a heartfelt gesture, the Greece players dedicated their unexpected victory against England in Thursday's Nations League clash to their late teammate George Baldock, who tragically passed away at the age of 31 on Wednesday.

The former Sheffield United defender, who had earned 12 caps for Greece, was found deceased in his swimming pool at his home in Athens. During Thursday's match, Vangelis Pavlidis scored the winning goal four minutes after half-time to secure a surprising triumph at Wembley for the Euro 2004 winners.

Heartfelt gesture from his teammates 

After scoring, the player removed his black armband as a tribute to Baldock, raising it above his head and pointing to it, while some colleagues gazed at the sky. The players then held up Baldock's Greece jersey.

During the game, both teams showed solidarity by wearing black armbands. Additionally, England paid tribute to the late Lord Herman Ouseley, the founder of Kick It Out, who passed away last week. A moment of silence was observed before the kick-off to honour both men.

The initial findings from the coroner's inquest indicate that Baldock tragically drowned in his pool. Baldock's family has released a statement expressing their deep shock and sadness at this devastating loss.

The football community has been left reeling by his passing, leading Panathinaikos to issue a statement expressing their shock and sadness. Both the club and his teammates are deeply affected by the tragic loss of our beloved George.

"The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock." - his club.

The Football Association was among many others to send their condolences. A statement said: "We are devastated to learn of the passing of George Baldock at the age of 31. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with George's family, friends and teammates at club and country."