AEK Athens manager Marko Nikolić faced sharp criticism and defensive questioning following a 3–1 defeat to PAOK at Toumba Stadium in Thessaloniki, driven largely by his decision to leave Barnabás Varga on the bench throughout the Greek Cup fixture, ORIGO reported.

Toumba Stadium Defeat Prompts Questions Over Bench Strategy

AEK travelled to Thessaloniki for the cup tie with expectations surrounding Varga’s involvement. Just four days prior, the Hungary national team forward started and scored a penalty in a 5–0 league victory over Panetolikos. Greek media reports leading up to the cup match indicated Varga was competing alongside Zini and Michalis Kaloskamis for a starting spot alongside Luka Jović.

Nikolić ultimately selected Jović and Zini in his starting XI, leaving Varga among the substitutes. The tactical choice drew scrutiny not merely from the opening whistle, but because the Serbian coach declined to use Varga even as AEK chased the match in the second half.

Substitutions and Missed Windows Shape the Match Flow

AEK found an equalizer in the 50th minute through a goal from Jović, sparking a strong period of pressure where the visitors gained momentum and put the PAOK defense under sustained duress. PAOK manager Razvan Lucescu responded by injecting fresh legs, and substitute Shola Shoretire duly restored the hosts’ lead with a decisive strike.

In contrast, Nikolić delayed his first tactical adjustments until the 77th minute, introducing João Mário and Derek Kutesa. The manager made no further changes, leaving Varga unused on the bench as AEK fell behind and ultimately required two late goals that never materialized.

Greek Media Analysis Highlights Unused Options

Sportdog’s post-match tactical analysis zeroed in on the Hungarian forward’s omission during AEK’s strongest spell of the second half. The outlet noted that while no one could guarantee an earlier introduction of Varga or any other substitute would have secured a victory, it remained a valid question why the coaching staff elected not to intervene when the momentum of the game offered a clear window to strike.

When questioned by reporters after the final whistle, Nikolić had to account for deploying only two substitutes during a high-stakes away defeat that leaves his side with ground to recover in the domestic cup competition.