George Baldock death: Greece players pay tribute after historic win over England

Goalscorer Vangelis Pavlidis said Greece’s players “gave everything” for their late team-mate George Baldock, who died the day before their historic win over England at Wembley.

Pavlidis scored in stoppage time as Greece beat the Euro 2024 finalists 2-1 on Thursday evening – the day after their players learned of Baldock’s death.

A minute’s silence was held in memory of Baldock before the Nations League match, and Pavlidis held his black armband aloft after scoring the game’s opening goal before the team collectively raised Baldock’s number two shirt in celebration.

“It was a really special game for us because of George and of course we gave everything for him and for his family,” Pavlidis told ITV.

“We just said that we have to play for him. It doesn’t matter the score today, we want to play for him and we give everything for him.”

England-born Panathinaikos defender Baldock, 31, drowned in a swimming pool at his home in Glyfada, southern Athens, on Wednesday evening.

Baldock’s family said they were “heartbroken” by the sudden passing of “our beloved George”.

A statement read: “George, you were the most special father, fiance, son, brother, uncle, friend, team-mate and person.

“Your enthusiasm and infectious personality brought so much love to those that were fortunate enough to know you and those that adored you from the stands.

“We will forever cherish the special memories we have of you and you will continue to live on in your beautiful son. You were due to fly home today for us to celebrate his first birthday together, but instead we mourn your loss.

“As a family it has been incredibly touching, but equally so very difficult to read the huge number of tributes written by those that knew George and from those whose life he touched.”