PAOK Saloniki kicked off their UEFA Europa League campaign in emphatic style, securing a commanding 2-0 victory over Ukrainian giants Dynamo Kyiv at the Toumba Stadium on the night of July 31, 2026. The Greek side delivered a disciplined, high‑energy performance to claim all three points in front of a passionate home crowd, sending an early statement to the rest of Group D.

Match Overview

From the opening whistle, PAOK imposed their physicality and pressing game, preventing Dynamo Kyiv from settling into their usual rhythm. The visitors, known for their technical possession play under new coach Yuriy Vernydub, struggled to cope with the intensity of the hosts. PAOK’s midfield trio, led by captain Andrija Živković, controlled the central areas and repeatedly forced turnovers in dangerous positions.

Key Moments

• 26th minute – PAOK take the lead: A quick corner routine caught Dynamo’s defence off guard. Živković’s low cross found the feet of striker Mbwana Samatta, who swivelled and fired a left‑footed shot into the bottom corner.
• 58th minute – Second goal seals the win: Following a prolonged spell of Dynamo pressure, PAOK hit on the counter. A long ball from centre‑back Konstantinos Koulierakis released winger Taison, who cut inside from the left and curled a beautiful strike beyond the reach of goalkeeper Heorhiy Bushchan.
• 74th minute – Dynamo miss a golden chance: A rare defensive lapse allowed Dynamo forward Vladyslav Vanat a clear sight of goal, but he dragged his effort wide with only the keeper to beat – a turning point that extinguished hopes of a comeback.

Tactical Story

PAOK manager Răzvan Lucescu set his team up in a compact 4‑2‑3‑1, instructing his full‑backs to push high while the two holding midfielders screened the back four. Dynamo Kyiv’s 4‑3‑3 looked to build patiently through the thirds, but PAOK’s relentless pressing – particularly from attacking midfielder Chuba Akpom – disrupted their passing lanes. The Greek champions successfully limited Dynamo to just three shots on target, all of which were handled comfortably by shot‑stopper Dominik Kotarski.

Standout Performers

• Andrija Živković (PAOK): The Serbian international ran the game from the right flank, providing the assist for the opening goal and completing four key passes. His work rate without the ball was equally impressive.
• Mbwana Samatta (PAOK): A tireless performance leading the line. The Tanzanian striker not only scored but also dropped deep to link play, winning five aerial duels.
• Heorhiy Bushchan (Dynamo Kyiv): Despite the defeat, the Ukrainian goalkeeper made several fine saves to keep the scoreline respectable, including a fingertip stop to deny Taison a second in the second half.

Impact on the Europa League Standings

With this win, PAOK Saloniki sit top of Group D alongside other early winners, while Dynamo Kyiv face an uphill battle to reach the knockout stages. The result continues PAOK’s impressive home form in European competition – they have now lost only one of their last 11 UEFA Europa League matches at Toumba Stadium. For Dynamo, the task now is to regroup ahead of a crucial double‑header against the group’s other contenders.

The performance will also boost PAOK’s confidence ahead of the upcoming domestic season, where they aim to defend the Super League Greece title. For neutrals, this match served as a reminder of the Greek side’s growing European pedigree, while Dynamo Kyiv will hope to bounce back when they return to Ukrainian league action next week.