Fans of Greek football club display Russian flag to provoke Ukrainians

The Europa League first qualifying round match between Greek PAOK and Dynamo Kyiv, held in Lublin, Poland, ended not only with a football contest but also with a major scandal in the stands. During the match, a group of PAOK supporters unfurled a Russian flag, provoking a sharp reaction from Ukrainian fans and leading to clashes at the stadium. To put an end to the disorder, security officers were forced to use tear gas.

According to sources, tensions arose almost immediately after the Russian flag appeared in the Greek supporters’ section. In response, Ukrainian fans began shouting offensive slogans, after which a crush developed between the sections and some attempted to break through the barriers. Security intervened promptly and used gas to disperse the most aggressive participants.

After the game, Dynamo Kyiv midfielder Oleksandr Pikhalyonok confirmed that the provocations had indeed taken place. According to him, PAOK supporters deliberately displayed the Russian flag both to the footballers and to Ukrainian fans. At the same time, the player noted that the Greek club’s footballers themselves were not involved in the conflict and, on the contrary, tried to calm the situation by diverting attention away from their stands.

Even before the match, Dynamo’s management officially advised its supporters not to travel to Poland, citing the high risks of possible provocations and security problems. The club warned that the tension surrounding the match could go beyond sporting rivalry.

At the time of publication, neither UEFA nor PAOK had issued official statements regarding the display of the Russian flag or the use of gas in the stands. There were also no reports of participants in the incident being detained or of a possible disciplinary investigation by European football’s governing body.