Real Betis is set to face PAOK in a critical Europa League clash in Thessaloniki, Greece. With this match taking place on Thursday, both teams find themselves in contrasting positions in their respective leagues.
Match Preview: PAOK vs. Real Betis
As of now, PAOK, currently in a solid position in the Europa League, has accumulated two wins, three draws, and one loss in their six League Phase matches. They hold a total of nine points, which places them two points ahead of Dinamo Zagreb, who are in 25th place.
PAOK is aiming to build on recent momentum after winning five of their last six competitive outings, including a notable 2-0 win over Olympiacos in the Greek Cup. They also secured a dominating 3-0 victory against OFI Crete in their last league match, contributing to an impressive home record.
Recent Form
- PAOK Europa League form: D, L, W, W, D, D
- PAOK overall form: W, W, W, W, W, W
- Real Betis Europa League form: D, W, D, W, W, W
- Real Betis overall form: W, W, L, D, W, W
On the other hand, Real Betis enjoys a strong position in the Europa League, having already qualified for the knockout rounds with 14 points from six matches. They are currently in fourth place and have improved their domestic performances despite a recent string of mixed results.
Team News: Injuries and Suspensions
In terms of team news, PAOK will be without goalkeeper Jiri Pavlenka. Other key players, including Luka Ivanusec, Kiril Despodov, and Giannis Konstantelias, are also doubtful. Midfielder Soualiho Meite is likely out, but Magomed Ozdoev returns after a ban.
Real Betis faces challenges with injuries sidelining Hector Bellerin, Junior Firpo, Rodrigo Riquelme, and Cucho Hernandez. Antony has also been ruled out due to ongoing groin issues, while Cedric Bakambu will serve a suspension following multiple yellow cards.
Potential Lineups
Here’s how both teams might line up for this important match:
| PAOK | Real Betis |
|---|---|
| Tsiftsis | Valles |
| Kenny | Ortiz |
| Kedziora | Bartra |
| Michailidis | Natan |
| Baba | Rodriguez |
| Ozdoev | Altimira |
| Camara | Deossa |
| Zivkovic | Ruibal |
| Pelkas | Fornals |
| Taison | Ezzalzouli |
| Giakoumakis | Avila |
This Thursday’s encounter promises to be a tightly contested match. While PAOK has the home advantage, Real Betis is undefeated away in Europe this season. A draw could be a likely outcome, with both teams eager to secure points going forward.
