PAOK qualified for the final of the Greek championship after winning the decisive fifth semi-final against Milon with a score of 3:1 (24:26, 25:19, 25:18, 30:28) in an extremely dramatic match that lasted 118 minutes. The stable team performance was at the heart of the success, and Bulgarian international Nikolay Kolev once again demonstrated his importance in the middle.
The middle blocker finished with 10 points, contributing both in attack and on the block:
| Player | Points | +/- | Aces | Blocks | Attack % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nikolay Kolev (PAOK) | 10 | +4 | 1 | 3 | 43% |
Although not the leading scorer, Kolev played a tactically very strong match. He provided stability in tempo and was a factor at the net with his three blocks, especially in the tense fourth set when PAOK closed out the match.
The match began with an advantage for Milon, who snatched the first set with a score of 26:24. However, PAOK reacted decisively and took the next two sets, imposing a better rhythm in attack and stronger serving.
The fourth set turned into a true battle of nerves. Milon had opportunities to force a tie-break, but service errors and PAOK's stable defensive play tilted the scales in favor of the visitors – 30:28.
Team statistics:
| Statistic | Milon | PAOK |
|---|---|---|
| Blocks | 7 | 9 |
| Attack % | 55% | 52% |
| Points from attack | 51 | 44 |
| Positive reception | 44% | 50% |
| Aces | 7 | 12 |
| Service errors | 26 | 18 |
| Points from opponent's errors | 26 | 39 |
PAOK lost in direct attack, but compensated with better serving and discipline. The difference of 12 aces against 7, as well as significantly fewer service errors, proved crucial.
Additionally, 39 points from Milon's errors demonstrate the pressure PAOK exerted throughout the match.
Setter Marcos Galiotos was chosen as MVP. He distributed the balls excellently and kept Milon's block constantly moving, which opened up spaces for the middle blockers, including Kolev.
After this success, PAOK qualified for the final, where they will face the reigning champion Panathinaikos.
Given what was shown – strong serving, stable blocking, and balanced play – the team from Thessaloniki enters the title battle with strong arguments. And Nikolay Kolev continues to be an important part of this structure, especially in the most intense moments.
photos:A.S. PAOK
