PAOK qualified for the final of the Greek Cup Final Four after defeating Panathinaikos 3-2 (25-19, 22-25, 19-25, 25-18, 12-15) in an extremely competitive match in Arta, lasting 132 minutes. Nikolay Kolev played a key role in the success, being stable in attack and block.

PAOK triumphed in a dramatic semi-final against Panathinaikos!

PAOK qualified for the Greek Cup final after a tough five-set battle against Panathinaikos in Hall T9 in Kostakioi, Arta. The "Double-headed Eagles" showed character and despite a shaky start, prevailed 3:2, thanks to their strong performance in decisive moments. Bulgarian international Nikolay Kolev was among the key figures in this success, dominating at the net throughout the match.

🏐 Set 1: Panathinaikos started confidently (25-17)

The match began with an ace serve by Rasmus Nielsen, and Panathinaikos took control thanks to aggressive serving. PAOK made a total of 13 errors, which allowed the "Greens" to pull ahead. Despite attempts to react, Milenkovski's team had no answer to the opponent's stable reception and attacks.

🏐 Set 2: PAOK stabilized its game (22-25)

The "Double-headed Eagles" began to reduce errors and pressed with their serve, making it difficult for the opponent to organize their game. Nikolay Kolev was at the heart of the comeback, winning important duels at the net. Strong contributions from Katic and Lyaftov helped PAOK take control and close the set in their favor.

🏐 Set 3: Kolev takes command (20-25)

PAOK found its rhythm and started dictating the tempo. Nikolay Kolev was insurmountable on the block, repeatedly stopping key attacks by Panathinaikos. Dimitris Mouchlias and Katic were also stable in attack, and Lyaftov contributed with an effective serve. Despite Panathinaikos' attempts to reduce the deficit, PAOK showed discipline and closed the set with a comfortable lead.

🏐 Set 4: Panathinaikos returns (25-18)

Although PAOK had a psychological advantage, Panathinaikos responded powerfully. The "Greens'" serve worked again and caused problems in the "Double-headed Eagles'" reception. Joshko Milenkovski tried changes, but Panathinaikos maintained a high rhythm and sent the match to a tie-break.

🏐 Tie-break: Kolev shines, PAOK triumphs! (12-15)

Nikolay Kolev was a key figure in the tie-break, starting with the first two points for his team. He made an attack for 0-1, and immediately after added a block for 0-2, giving them a strong start.

At the end of the set, Kolev again played a decisive role when his team pulled ahead. At 8-13, he recorded another block, and immediately after repeated the exercise for 8-14, practically predetermining the outcome of the match.

🔥 On to the final!

With this success, PAOK secured a place in the battle for the trophy, where they will face Olympiacos. The opponent reached the final more easily, but PAOK showed that they are a team not afraid of challenges. With Nikolay Kolev's strong form and collective play, the "Double-headed Eagles" are ready for another decisive clash! 🏆🔥

Nikolay Kolev's Contribution ✨

Kolev was stable in attack and helped PAOK's defense, forming the backbone of the team along with Mouchlias. PAOK finished with 2 aces and stable reception, while Panathinaikos relied more on serving and opponent errors.

PANATHINAIKOS A.O. (Dimitris Andreopoulos): Van Garderen 9 (7/18 attacks, 1 ace, 1 block, 52% positive reception - 16% excellent), Elgert 1 (1 ace), Gassmann 9 (7/10 attacks, 2 aces), Petreas 8 (8/14 attacks, 55% positive reception - 32% excellent), Kassambalis, Voulkidis 3 (2/7 attacks, 1 block), Frangos.

P.A.O.K. F&U (Joshko Milenkoski): Katich 13 (11/27 attacks, 1 ace, 1 block, 36% positive reception - 14% excellent), Lobizenko 1 (1/4 attacks), Muhlia D. 29 (25/41 attacks, 4 blocks), Muhlia B., Takouridis, Bonias 1 (1 ace), Muhlia S.
🆚The Final:PAOK vs. Olympiacos – Saturday, March 29, 19:00! Will the "black and whites" manage to win the trophy? 🤔🔥