The Football League (Greek: Φούτμπολ Λιγκ) was the second highest professional football league in Greece since its inception in 1962 as Beta Ethniki and until 2019. It then served as a third tier after the creation of the Super League 2 as the new second tier and it was eventually abolished in 2021 when the 2021–22 Super League 2 went from a 12 team to a 36 team league, absorbing most of the clubs from the Football League.

History

As the Second National Division (1962–2019)

As the second tier of the Greek football league system, the Beta Ethniki was formally established in the fall of 1962, replacing the informal Greek FCA Winners' Championship, which at the time had tried various experimental formats towards establishing a second national football Division. All participating clubs had to disengage from their local football clubs associations' championships as a prerequisite for eligibility.

In its early years, the competition format was frequently altered each season. The competition was originally held in four groups of 14 clubs each until 1968–69, when the competition was reformatted to contain two groups. The following six years (1969–70 up to 1974–75), the competition was held with three Groups, whereas from 1975 to 1976 up to 1982–83 the league was again contested in two Groups, North and South. In the autumn of 1983, a single, pan-Hellenic League Table was established, a format that has been applied continuously until the 2012–13 season. When football in Greece became professional, the Hellenic Football Federation handed over the responsibility for the competition's organization to the Greek Professional Football Clubs Association (Greek: ΕΠΑΕ). In 2006, the Professional Football Association of the Second and Third National Divisions (Greek: ΕΕΠ Β΄ & Γ΄ Εθνικής) was set up, which replaced the Greek Professional Football Clubs Association as the governing authority of the Second and Third National Divisions.

In August 2010, the division's governing body decided to change its own, as well as the competition's distinctive title to Football League. The competition was contested as the Second National Division until 2019, when the Greek football league system was restructured and the Super League 2 was established as the new feeder league to the Super League.

As the Third National Division (2019–2021)

As of 2019, the Football League Greece replaced the Gamma Ethniki as the third tier of the Greek football league system. It was finally abolished in 2021 with most clubs being absorbed into the second tier Super League 2.

The Greece Football League is an annual soccer tournament held in Greece, showcasing the country's top football talent. It is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated events in Greek football, attracting teams from various regions and divisions across the country.

The tournament features a format that includes both group stages and knockout rounds, providing an exciting and competitive atmosphere for players and fans alike. The participating teams battle it out on the field, displaying their skills, tactics, and teamwork to secure victory and claim the coveted title of Greece Football League champions.

The Greece Football League not only serves as a platform for teams to showcase their abilities but also acts as a stepping stone for aspiring players to catch the attention of scouts and potentially secure professional contracts. Many talented individuals have emerged from this tournament, going on to represent Greece at national and international levels.

The matches are held in various stadiums across Greece, offering a unique opportunity for fans to experience the passion and enthusiasm of Greek football firsthand. The atmosphere in the stands is electric, with supporters chanting, waving flags, and creating an incredible ambiance that adds to the excitement of the games.

The Greece Football League is not only about the competition on the field but also about the celebration of Greek football culture. It brings together people from different backgrounds, united by their love for the sport, creating a sense of camaraderie and community spirit.

Overall, the Greece Football League is a thrilling and prestigious tournament that showcases the best of Greek football. It provides a platform for teams and players to shine, while also fostering a sense of unity and pride among fans. Whether you are a die-hard football enthusiast or simply looking for an exciting sporting event, the Greece Football League is an experience not to be missed.