PAOK Saloniki edged Atromitos Athens 1-0 in a tense Greek Cup tie on September 17, 2026. A solitary second-half goal was enough to separate the sides at the Peristeri Stadium, giving the visitors a crucial advantage in the knockout competition.

Match Overview

The first half was a cagey affair, with Atromitos sitting deep and looking to hit on the counter. PAOK controlled possession but struggled to break down a disciplined defensive block. The breakthrough came in the 63rd minute when PAOK's star striker, Chuba Akpom, latched onto a defence-splitting pass and slotted the ball past the onrushing goalkeeper. Atromitos pushed for an equaliser late on, but PAOK's defence held firm to secure the win.

Key Moments

• 63' – 0-1 PAOK: Chuba Akpom timed his run perfectly to beat the offside trap and finish clinically.
• 78' – Atromitos chance: A header from a corner flashed just wide of the post.
• 90+2' – PAOK save: Goalkeeper Dominik Kotarski tipped a fierce drive over the bar to preserve the clean sheet.

Tactical Analysis

Atromitos set up in a 5-4-1 formation, aiming to frustrate PAOK and counter through quick wingers. PAOK, in a 4-2-3-1, moved the ball patiently and used their full-backs to create overloads. The winning goal came from a moment of individual quality, as Akpom exploited a momentary lapse in concentration. PAOK's midfield duo controlled the tempo, while Atromitos struggled to keep hold of the ball.

Standout Performers

Chuba Akpom was the match-winner for PAOK, his movement and finishing proving the difference. Goalkeeper Dominik Kotarski made a crucial late save to deny Atromitos a share of the spoils. For Atromitos, centre-back Dimitris Nikolaou was a rock at the back, but his teammates lacked a cutting edge in the final third.

Cup Context

The Greek Cup is a prestigious competition, and PAOK will feel confident of progressing after this away win. Atromitos now face an uphill task in the second leg, needing to score at least once at the Toumba Stadium. The result extends PAOK's strong head-to-head record against Atromitos in recent seasons.