PAOK eliminated from Conference League after 3-2 loss to Brann

PAOK's European journey has come to an end after a dramatic 3-2 defeat against Norwegian side Brann in Bergen. The Greek club found themselves in a precarious position, trailing 2-0, but mounted an impressive comeback to level the score before a late penalty sealed their fate.

The home side took a crucial lead in first-half stoppage time when Holm headed home from a corner, leaving PAOK chasing the game. The situation worsened in the 56th minute when Ingason capitalized on a poor defensive reaction from PAOK after losing possession, extending Brann's lead to 2-0 with a well-placed shot.

However, PAOK refused to give up. Manager Alessio Lisci introduced substitutions, bringing on Pelkas and Taylor, which immediately changed the team's dynamic. In the 63rd minute, Pelkas created an opportunity, and Ndiaye scored with an excellent finish, pulling one goal back for PAOK.

Just four minutes later, PAOK drew level. Taylor delivered a cross, Hadzidis headed it on, and Zafeiris unleashed a powerful shot to make it 2-2, reigniting hopes of a significant comeback. PAOK even thought they had taken the lead in the 76th minute when Zafeiris found the net again, but the goal was disallowed, keeping the score tied.

As PAOK pushed for a winning goal, Brann was awarded a penalty in the 83rd minute after a foul by Giannoulis. Castro stepped up three minutes later and converted the spot-kick, securing a 3-2 victory for Brann and eliminating PAOK from the Conference League. Despite their spirited fightback, crucial errors and the late penalty proved too costly for the Thessaloniki club.