PAOK loses Greek Cup final to OFI

PAOK lost the Greek Cup final to OFI with a score of 3-2 after extra time at the Panthessaliko Stadium in Volos on April 25. PAOK coach Razvan Lucescu described the match as a shameful and dark moment for the team, citing defensive errors and a loss of control after scoring the opening goal. The preparation for the final was marred by several player absences, including Dejan Lovren and Georgios Giakoumakis due to injuries. The team had also recently suffered a 3-0 defeat against AEK Athens, prompting an urgent focus on mental preparation before the final. Ivan Savvidis, the owner of PAOK, arrived in Thessaloniki shortly before the match, although his presence at the stadium was not confirmed. During the build-up, the coach had to manage specific tactical constraints regarding the mandatory inclusion of a player under the age of 21. Ultimately, Lucescu emphasized that the season's difficulties reflected the historical struggles of the club's 100-year existence.