A difficult week for Greek clubs in European competition continued Thursday as PAOK lost 1-0 at home to Belgium’s Anderlecht in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League third qualifying round tie.
Serbian forward Mihajlo Cvetkovic scored the only goal after just 16 seconds, capitalizing on a defensive error following a long clearance by Anderlecht goalkeeper Colin Coosemans.
Playing under new Italian coach Alessio Lisci, PAOK responded strongly and controlled much of the match but failed to find an equalizer. Their best chance came in the first half when they were awarded a penalty, but Coosemans saved Giannis Michailidis’ left-footed spot kick. Anestis Mythou converted the rebound, but the goal was disallowed after PAOK players entered the penalty area before the kick was taken.
The hosts continued to dominate possession after the break but were unable to break through the Belgian defense despite sustained pressure.
The return leg will be played next Thursday. The winner will advance to the Europa League playoff round, while the loser will continue in the UEFA Conference League playoff round.
