Dynamo Kyiv
Dynamo Kyiv 2-3 PAOK: Europa League 2nd Qualifying Round Drama
The NSK Olimpiyskiy erupted then crumbled as PAOK fought back from an early deficit to stun Dynamo Kyiv 3-2 in a breathless Europa League 2nd qualifying round first leg. Three goals in 15 first-half minutes turned the tie on its head, leaving Ukraine’s giants with a mountain to climb in Greece.
Dynamo Kyiv’s Dream Start
Volodymyr Brazhko sent the home fans into raptures after just three minutes, latching onto a loose ball to rifle Dynamo ahead. The 21-year-old’s strike seemed to confirm Kyiv’s dominance, but PAOK’s response was brutal. Giannis Konstantelias levelled ten minutes later, coolly finishing Andrija Živković’s cutback before Christos Zafeiris smashed the Greeks ahead in the 38th minute – their second goal in 25 dizzying minutes.
PAOK’s Midfield Masterclass
The visitors’ midfield trio of Santamaria, Zafeiris and Konstantelias ran the show, with the latter turning provider six minutes after the break. His delicate through ball found Baptiste Santamaria, who made it 3-1 with a composed finish. Dynamo’s frustration showed as Mykola Ponomarenko saw yellow for a reckless challenge, their attacks growing increasingly desperate against PAOK’s organised backline.
Late Drama as Kyiv Rally
Substitute Jordy Lonwijk gave Dynamo hope in the 77th minute, nodding in Buyalskyy’s cross to set up a grandstand finish. But PAOK held firm despite late pressure, with goalkeeper Jiří Pavlenka commanding his area superbly. Three yellow cards in the final half-hour showed the Greeks’ determination to protect their lead, leaving Dynamo with only regrets and a precarious deficit to overturn.
What This Means
PAOK return to Thessaloniki with a priceless advantage and three away goals, though Dynamo’s late strike keeps the tie alive. The Ukrainians must now produce something special at the Toumba Stadium, where PAOK haven’t lost in European competition since 2021. For Kostyuk’s side, this was a harsh lesson in game management; for Lisci’s men, a statement victory that could define their season.
Key Moments
3′ ⚽ Dynamo Kyiv — V. Brazhko
13′ ⚽ PAOK — G. Konstantelias (assist: A. Zivkovic)
38′ ⚽ PAOK — C. Zafeiris
51′ ⚽ PAOK — B. Santamaria (assist: G. Konstantelias)🔮 Before kick-off: our match preview & prediction.
