Dynamo Kiev vs PAOK Preview: Ukrainian Giants Face Greek Challenge in Europa League Qualifier

UEFA Europa League  -  Dynamo Kyiv VS PAOK Saloniki
Match Time:24-07-2026 01:00 Friday (GMT+8)
Football Livescore | Match Prediction & Tips
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Dynamo Kiev and PAOK meet in the second qualifying round of the Europa League as both sides begin their latest European campaign. Dynamo Kiev are looking to build on their qualification success in the previous round, while PAOK return to continental action hoping to make a strong start after an encouraging pre-season.

Team Analysis:
Dynamo Kiev enter this tie with valuable competitive experience already under their belt after overcoming Universitatea Cluj in the previous qualifying round. The Ukrainian giants progressed after two goalless draws and a penalty shootout victory, highlighting their defensive organisation but also exposing some concerns in attack.

The 17-time Ukrainian champions endured a disappointing domestic campaign last season, finishing fourth in the league and missing out on the title race. However, Dynamo remain one of the country's biggest clubs and have extensive European experience. Their ability to control matches through midfield quality and defensive discipline could prove important in this tie.

PAOK, meanwhile, begin their competitive season with this Europa League qualifier. The Greek side have finished third in the Greek Super League in each of the last two seasons and continue to be one of the strongest teams in Greece. They enjoyed a positive pre-season, winning three of their four friendly matches, but defensive issues remain a concern after conceding in their final seven competitive fixtures last season.

The visitors possess plenty of attacking quality and have strengthened their squad during the summer, but playing away from home in European competition has historically been more challenging. PAOK will need to remain compact defensively while looking to exploit opportunities on the counterattack.

Player Situation:
Dynamo Kiev are expected to keep goalkeeper Ruslan Neshcheret in the starting lineup after recording consecutive clean sheets in their Europa League qualifiers. The defensive partnership of Kristian Bilovar and Taras Mykhavko is also likely to continue, providing stability at the back.

Young striker Matviy Ponomarenko will be a key attacking figure after scoring 13 goals in just 15 league appearances last season. Veteran winger Andriy Yarmolenko remains another important attacking option, bringing experience and creativity to the frontline.

PAOK could hand summer signing Baptiste Santamaria a role in midfield as they look to strengthen their control in the centre of the pitch. Attacking players such as Taha Abdi Ali, Andrija Zivkovic and Giannis Konstantelias will be expected to provide creativity, while winger Shola Shoretire remains doubtful due to a knee problem.

Result Prediction:
This is expected to be a closely contested Europa League qualifier between two teams with strong European backgrounds. Dynamo Kiev may have a slight advantage due to their competitive rhythm after already playing two qualification matches, while PAOK are still adapting after the summer break.

The Ukrainian side have shown defensive strength in recent European matches, but their lack of attacking sharpness could limit their ability to break down a disciplined PAOK defence. The Greek team have enough quality to make the match difficult, especially if they can avoid early pressure.

A cautious first leg is likely, with both teams prioritising avoiding defeat before the return fixture.

Prediction: Dynamo Kiev 0-0 PAOK