PAOK Saloniki Women 3–0 Neftchi Baku Women: Greek champions dominate with clinical first half

PAOK Saloniki Women opened their UEFA Women's Champions League qualifying campaign with a convincing 3–0 win over Neftchi Baku Women on 25 July 2026. The Greek side put the match to bed inside the opening 45 minutes with three well-taken goals.

Match Overview

PAOK controlled the game from start to finish at their home ground. Neftchi Baku, making their debut in the competition, found it difficult to cope with the intensity and technical quality of the hosts. The match was effectively over by halftime as PAOK's forwards punished defensive lapses.

Key Moments

• 18' – Goal! PAOK's midfielder fired home from the edge of the box after a corner was cleared.
• 32' – Goal! A swift counter-attack ended with a low finish past the Neftchi goalkeeper.
• 44' – Goal! PAOK capitalised on a defensive error, with the striker rounding the keeper to make it 3–0.

Tactical Story

PAOK employed a high press in a 4-2-3-1 shape, forcing Neftchi into early mistakes. The Greek side's full-backs pushed forward, creating overloads in wide areas. Neftchi attempted to build from the back but were repeatedly dispossessed in dangerous areas. PAOK's goalkeeper had a quiet evening as the defense remained organised.

Standout Players

• PAOK #8 – Scored the opening goal and orchestrated play from midfield with precise passing.
• PAOK #11 – The winger was a constant threat, assisting one goal and winning the penalty that led to the third.
• Neftchi Baku #1 – Despite conceding three, the goalkeeper made several saves to prevent a heavier defeat.

Table & Season Impact

PAOK's dominant start gives them a strong foothold in the qualifying group. A clean sheet and three goals provide confidence ahead of tougher tests. Neftchi Baku will need to regroup quickly if they hope to progress.