PAOK had a tough time in Russia on Tuesday, unable to clench onto a victory against their hosts during the Champions League playoffs.
The Greek front ended on 1-2, after what initially looked like a strong start, but Krasnodar pulled through in the second half.
In the first half hour of the match PAOK really turned up the heat, smashing through the Russian’s defense.
Midfielder Dimitris Pelkas missed a penalty granted in the sixth minute due to a deflection by Krasnodar keeper Matvey Safonov, but came back guns blazing in the 33rd minute with a powerful shot from close range bring the score to 1-0.
Unfortunately this would be the end of PAOK’s celebrations as a mere six minutes later defender Dimitris Giannoulis gave the Russian front a penalty for a tackle on Remy Cabella.
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Krasnodar’s Viktor Claesson took the shot and brought the score to a tie.
In the second half PAOK seemed to be the top contender but after PAOK’s Omar El Kaddouri shot hit the post, the Russians flew into action.
Krasnodar forward Markus Berg passed to Cabella who gave the hosts a 2-1 lead.
PAOK’s gameplay was impressive meaning a comeback could be on the horizon.
Perhaps things will take a turn when they welcome their rivals on home soil in Thessaloniki on 30 September, or 1 October at 5:00am AEST for those watching in Australia.