PAOK eliminated from UEFA Conference League after defeat to Brann

PAOK Thessaloniki has been eliminated from the UEFA Conference League following a 3-2 defeat against the Norwegian club Brann in Bergen on August 27, 2026. After a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Thessaloniki, the Greek side needed a win to advance to the league phase. Despite staging a brief comeback to equalize at 2-2 with goals from Ndiaye and Zafeiris, a late penalty converted by Castro in the 86th minute sealed the defeat and the club's exit from European competition this season.

Leading up to the match, PAOK faced significant challenges, including the failed appeal to reduce a two-match suspension for captain Andrija Zivkovic, who was sent off against Anderlecht in the Europa League qualifiers. Coach Alessio Lisci was also deprived of Mady Camara due to injury. With the European campaign now concluded, the club turns its focus to domestic duties, specifically the Greek league and the Superbet Greek Cup, amid a period of internal instability.