OFI – PAOK 2-1: Great victory for the Cretans at Pankritio Stadium
OFI defeated PAOK 2-1 thanks to goals from Foundas and Androutsos, inflicting a defeat on the visitors.
In the 8th matchday of the Stoiximan Super League, OFI secured an important 2-1 victory against PAOK at Pankritio Stadium. Christos Kontis' team took the three points thanks to their attacking efficiency and defensive cohesion, in a game with intense emotions and the assistance of VAR in the decisive moments of the second half.
Lead in the first half with Foundas
The game started with both teams trying to impose their rhythm. OFI managed to open the scoring in the 38th minute, when Aitor Cantalapiedra assisted Taxiarchis Foundas, who sent the ball into the net for 1-0. The Cretan team maintained their lead until the half-time break.
Penalty, VAR and a thrilling finish
In the second half, PAOK coach Alessio Licci made changes to alter his team's performance. However, in the 82nd minute, there was a VAR review for a phase in PAOK's area, which concluded in the 83rd minute with a penalty awarded to the hosts. Thanasis Androutsos took the penalty in the 84th minute and doubled OFI's goals (2-0).
PAOK reacted and in the 89th minute reduced the score to 2-1 with a goal scored by Banza after an assist from Pantelis Hatzidiakos, following another VAR review. Despite the pressure from the visitors in the seven minutes of added time, OFI held onto their lead until the final whistle from referee Vergetis.
Match statistics
OFI finished the match with 12 total attempts (7 on target) and 39.19% possession, creating 2 big chances with an xG of 2.47. The hosts also had 8 saves from their goalkeeper, 5 corners, and committed 17 fouls, receiving 3 yellow cards.