PAOK gave their all against Lindemans Aalst in the "PAOK Sports Arena", but after a 2:3 defeat (20:25, 21:25, 25:19, 25:23, 12:15) after 129 minutes of play, they were eliminated in the quarterfinals of the Challenge Cup. As the first match also ended with the same score, the Greek team failed to reach a golden set and concluded their European campaign.

The Belgians dictated their rhythm in the first two sets, taking advantage of fluctuations in the hosts' reception and a strong serve – 0:2 after 20:25 and 21:25. PAOK responded with a more aggressive serve and better organization in blocking and defense to equalize after 25:19 and 25:23. In the tie-break, however, Aalst showed greater effectiveness in key rallies and closed out the match after 12:15.

Nikolay Kolev – the factor in the middle

Bulgarian middle blocker Nikolay Kolev played a strong match and was among the most consistent figures for PAOK. He finished with 13 points (8/11 in attack, 1 ace, 4 blocks), demonstrating excellent efficiency in offense and a stable presence at the net. It was his ace in the fourth set that provided momentum at 19:16 and helped force the match into a decisive fifth set.

Kolev was also key in the blocking element, where PAOK recorded a total of 13 successful blocks against 17 for the opponent. Nevertheless, Aalst's higher number of aces (10 against 5) and higher scoring efficiency in attack (52 points against 48) tilted the scales in favor of the Belgian team.

Match Statistics

The Belgians compensated for the lower number of gifted points with a stronger serve and more effective play at the net. PAOK received more points from opponent's errors but could not neutralize the pressure from serves and blocks.

For the Greek team, the European campaign has ended, and the focus now shifts to the domestic league. For Nikolay Kolev, however, the match was a clear sign of his stable form and his significant role in the middle of the net.

photo:cev.eu