As much as the spirit was willing, the bodies couldn’t follow. PAOK lost 2-0 in Slovakia and if one takes into account the 5-1 defeat in the first leg at the Kaftanzogleio, it’s reasonably understandable that the young players are disappointed with themselves. It must be noted, however, that as it turned out, they faced an excellent team that scored two goals and also created several more opportunities. The home side did not give the Double-headed Eagle much of a chance to make an impact on the game.

The Under-19s of course had a mountainous task before kick-off. And although they began dynamically, fashioning two good chances via Koutentakis in the 13th and 22nd minutes respectively, the hosts quickly found their balance and began to threaten with equally good opportunities. The match featured some short tempers on the part of both sets of players, while PAOK looked extra anxious, since they were chasing a minor miracle to salvage the tie.

In the second half, PAOK came close to scoring in the 62nd minute through Smyrlis and in the 68th minute through Aventisian, but the Slovaks were more effective in front of goal. With two goals in the 75th and in the 78th minutes, scored by Addo and Jambor, the home side deprived PAOK of any faint comeback hopes.

The Double-headed Eagle are now already regrouping to focus on the Super League championship and specifically for the upcoming game with Olympiacos away from home.

PAOK lineup:

Monastirlis, Tsopouroglou, Aventisian, Tsiakoumis, Kottas, Tsikos, Garnetas (58΄ Smyrlis), Koutentakis, Kedikoglou (58΄ Bambouras), Darelas (71′ Kalogiros), Spyrakos (83 Rumianchev).