PAOK defeats Iraklis 2-1 in dramatic Super League derby

PAOK secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory against Iraklis in a highly contentious Thessaloniki derby during the 7th round of the Super League. The match at Toumba Stadium was defined by multiple VAR interventions and intense officiating controversy.

Iraklis took an early lead in the 49th minute through Pedro Marques. However, PAOK responded in the 62nd minute with a header from Simon Banza to equalize. The match reached a fever pitch in the closing stages when Iraklis player Ioannis Ross was sent off following a VAR review of a goal that had been scored by Nanou.

In stoppage time (90+2'), Giannis Michailidis scored a decisive header from a Zivkovic free kick to complete the turnaround for PAOK. The game was marked by significant protests from Iraklis, including their coach Walter Mazzari, regarding several decisions, including two disallowed Iraklis goals and a rescinded penalty for PAOK due to offside.