Greek football faces refereeing controversy after PAOK-Iraklis derby

Controversial refereeing decisions by Vasilis Fotias during the PAOK vs. Iraklis derby at Toumba Stadium have sparked significant backlash and prompted discussions regarding the use of foreign officials in the Stoiximan Super League.

Critics, including Elias Spathas, have accused Fotias of altering the match outcome, claiming a 0-2 lead for Iraklis was effectively turned into a 2-1 victory for PAOK due to incorrect officiating and VAR intervention. The controversy has placed pressure on Chief Referee Stéphane Lannua, who is reportedly looking to bring in more foreign referees for VAR roles and upcoming high-stakes matches, such as OFI-PAOK and Volos-Panathinaikos, to mitigate domestic officiating issues.

This incident follows previous controversies involving Fotias, specifically a decisive penalty decision during a relegation playoff between AEL and Panserraikos last season, which also drew formal complaints from club officials.