It was one of the most interesting finals that come to memory in this particular age group. The menu had everything: passion, quick-paced football, opportunities to score and astonishing goals. Furthermore it provided hope, the youngsters performing attractive football.

With the exception of the first 10 minutes and Aris’s fiery start to the game –they came close to an opener with a direct free kick in the 7th minute-, the rest of the first half was an one-sided affair. PAOK dominated proceedings with their sleek passing game and quick changes of pace and direction. They were rewarded in the 18th minute, with Koutsias’s sumptuous individual effort. PAOK were firing relentlessly against Aris’s goal. The “Yellows” resisted at first, but eventually their defence broke down. After 29 minutes of play, Smyrlis set up Koutsias who made it 2-0 with his back to the net.

In the following two minutes, Koulouris’s run was cut short by Aris’s goalkeeper and Smyrlis tried his luck with a long-range shot. PAOK extended their lead in the 37th minute, with Tsikos’s flawless finish after collecting the assist from Spyridopoulos.

The match was very interesting, as both sets of players displayed their passion to win the trophy. Aris shot at woodwork in the 62nd minute. Earlier, Smyrlis broke free but the goalkeeper got the upper hand in their one-on-one. A rare mistake in PAOK’s defence gave Aris the opportunity to reduce distances in the 66th minute through Chatziioannou.

Until the final minute, both sides explored their chances. PAOK remained dangerous and Koutsias came close to a hat-trick, but the 3-1 scoreline remained unchanged until the final whistle.

PAOK U15: Monastirlis, Τasiouras, Ζilos, Κoutsidis, Sinanaj (45’ Cela), Τsikos, Spyridopoulos (45’ Bampouras), Rumiantsev (74’ Tsokos), Smyrlis (68’ Kamaros), Κoulouris, Κoutsias