PAOK Saloniki U19 edged a five-goal thriller against OFI Crete U19, winning 3-2 away in the Greek U19 league on Saturday, 24 October 2026. A late winner settled a contest full of momentum swings, giving PAOK an important three points in the youth standings and leaving OFI Crete frustrated after a spirited second-half display.

Match overview

PAOK started brightly and took the lead in the 12th minute when a quick passing move opened up the OFI defence. The hosts responded well, equalising just before the half-hour mark through a well-timed run from their striker. OFI then stunned the visitors early in the second half, taking a 2-1 lead after a counter-attack finished with a calm strike inside the box.

PAOK refused to panic. The visitors adjusted their midfield shape, pushed their full-backs higher and equalised in the 67th minute with a header from a cross. With the game stretched, both sides had chances, but PAOK found the decisive moment in the 84th minute when a substitute cut inside and curled a shot beyond the goalkeeper. OFI pressed late, but PAOK managed the closing minutes with maturity.

Key moments

• 12th minute: PAOK take an early lead after a fluent attacking move.
• 28th minute: OFI Crete equalise with a composed finish from their centre-forward.
• 52nd minute: OFI take a 2-1 lead after a fast counter-attack.
• 67th minute: PAOK level again with a header from a wide delivery.
• 84th minute: PAOK score the winner through a curling effort from the bench.

Tactical story

PAOK controlled the ball for long spells but were repeatedly exposed by OFI’s direct running in transition. The home side sat deeper after taking the lead and looked dangerous on the break, but their inability to keep possession under pressure invited PAOK back into the game. PAOK’s substitutions proved decisive, adding fresh legs and width in the final 25 minutes.

Standout players

PAOK’s right winger was a constant outlet, contributing an assist and stretching the OFI defence throughout. The substitute who scored the winner showed composure beyond his years. For OFI Crete, the striker led the line admirably with a goal and an assist, while the goalkeeper made several sharp stops to keep the home side in contention.

Season impact

The win keeps PAOK Saloniki U19 in the leading group of the Greek U19 table and underlines their ability to win away from home under pressure. OFI Crete U19 will take encouragement from their attacking display but must tighten up defensively in key moments. The result adds another compelling chapter to the youth league’s title race.