Kostyuk: Dynamo's second-half performance offers reasons for optimism

Dynamo Kyiv head coach Ihor Kostyuk shared his thoughts after the first leg of the Europa League second qualifying round, where his team suffered a 2-3 defeat against PAOK at the Arena Lublin in Poland.

The coach noted that while the team was punished for first-half errors, the performance after the break showed the potential to compete. "PAOK is an experienced side, and they punished us for our mistakes. However, we leveled the game after the break, dominated, and created chances. What we saw in the second half gives us grounds for optimism," Kostyuk said.

We understand what we need to improve. First and foremost, we must organize our play better and avoid simple mistakes. It was our failure to convert chances that prevented a better result. Ihor Kostyuk

Kostyuk also addressed the post-match incident involving a Russian flag displayed by PAOK supporters: "It was a deliberate provocation by Greek fans who do not understand the suffering in our country. It was an unpleasant situation. We are grateful to the Armed Forces of Ukraine for protecting us and allowing us to represent the country internationally."

The return leg is scheduled for July 30 in Thessaloniki. The winner of this tie will advance to the third qualifying round of the Europa League to face either Hammarby or Anderlecht.