PAOK Saloniki Women 3–0 Neftchi Baku Women: Greek Champions Cruise in Women's Champions League Opener

Date: 25 July 2026 | Competition: UEFA Women's Champions League – Qualifying Round

PAOK Saloniki Women made a statement in their Champions League qualifying campaign, brushing aside Neftchi Baku Women 3–0 on home soil. The Greek side’s superior technique and organization were evident throughout the 90 minutes.

Match Overview

PAOK controlled possession from the start, patiently building attacks and suffocating Neftchi’s attempts to break forward. The Azerbaijan champions rarely threatened the PAOK goal, with the home defense rarely tested.

Key Moments

• 22nd minute: PAOK took the lead after a slick passing move. Midfielder Eleni Kakambouki slid a pass to striker Maria Drakou, who fired into the bottom corner.
• 41st minute: A free kick from 25 yards was curled over the wall and into the top corner by left-back Sofia Natsiopoulou, doubling the advantage.
• 65th minute: A corner kick was headed home by center-back Despoina Chatzinikolaou, sealing the win.

Tactical Story

PAOK employed a possession-based 4-2-3-1, with the full-backs providing width and the attacking midfielders drifting into half-spaces. Neftchi tried to counter with a 4-4-2, but their defensive line was too deep and disjointed. PAOK’s high press forced turnovers in dangerous areas, and the midfield duo of Kakambouki and Vivi Karavida controlled the tempo.

Standout Players

• Maria Drakou (PAOK): Led the line effectively, scoring one and assisting another.
• Sofia Natsiopoulou (PAOK): A sublime free-kick and solid defensive work.
• Lamiya Akhmedova (Neftchi): Worked hard in midfield but had little support.

Season Impact

PAOK start their qualifying group with a perfect result and goal difference boost. Neftchi Baku will need to regroup quickly if they are to keep their hopes alive in this year’s competition.