Ghanaian defender Baba Rahman opened his account for the season with a well-taken goal, but PAOK Thessaloniki were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against rivals AEK Athens in a fiercely contested Greek Super League encounter.
Rahman, operating at left-back, gave PAOK an early lead with a composed finish that sent the home supporters at Toumba Stadium into raptures.
The 29-year-old, known more for his defensive contributions, showed his attacking instincts as he latched onto a cross and slotted the ball past the AEK goalkeeper, putting his side ahead in the opening 15 minutes.
However, PAOK’s celebrations were short-lived as AEK responded quickly, equalizing just 10 minutes later through Levi García.
The forward took advantage of a lapse in the PAOK defense, rising highest to meet a cross and head the ball beyond the reach of PAOK’s goalkeeper.
The rapid response by the visitors shifted the momentum of the game, setting up a tense battle between two of Greece’s top clubs.
The match unfolded with both sides pushing for a winner, though neither was able to capitalize on the opportunities that followed. PAOK, buoyed by Rahman’s opener, continued to apply pressure but found AEK’s defense difficult to break down.
AEK, for their part, showed resilience after the early setback, controlling phases of the game and creating chances on the counter-attack.
One of the key moments came late in the second half when PAOK nearly retook the lead. A dangerous free-kick delivered into the AEK penalty area caused chaos, but the visiting defenders scrambled the ball clear, denying PAOK a potential winner.
Similarly, AEK came close to snatching all three points when a long-range effort from García was tipped over the bar by the PAOK goalkeeper in a last-ditch save.
Despite the high intensity and end-to-end nature of the contest, neither team could find a decisive goal, and the match ended in a 1-1 stalemate.
For Rahman, the draw was bittersweet.
While he impressed with his offensive contribution, the result leaves PAOK still searching for consistency as they aim to climb the league standings.
Speaking after the game, PAOK’s manager praised Rahman’s effort but acknowledged the need for improvement.
Baba’s goal was a great moment for us, but we have to be more clinical in these types of matches.
AEK is a strong side, and they made it difficult for us to secure the win,” he said.
The draw sees both PAOK and AEK remain close to one another in the league table, with each side still looking to hit top form.
For Rahman, his first goal of the campaign will boost his confidence, but PAOK will need to convert strong individual performances into consistent team results if they are to challenge for silverware this season.
