David Flower
Dailysports's expert
PAOK Thessaloniki FC
FC FCSB
One of the playoff matches of the Europa League will take place on Thursday at the "Toumba" stadium in Thessaloniki, where the local PAOK will face FCSB. Here's a betting suggestion focusing on goals in this clash with promising chances for success.
Match Preview
Under Razvan Lucescu’s guidance, PAOK concluded the group stage with a 0-2 away defeat to Real Sociedad, ending their three-game winning streak in the Europa League. This marked the fourth time in the last eight tournament matches that the Greek side conceded two or more goals.
Despite their inconsistency, the team secured a spot in the playoffs by finishing in 22nd place, outperforming several opponents thanks to a better goal difference. PAOK has shown solid results at home in the Europa League, avoiding defeat in regular time in 8 of their last 9 home matches.
FCSB, coached by Elias Charalambous, lost their previous Europa League match 0-2 at home against Manchester United, ending their four-game unbeaten streak in the tournament (2 wins and 2 draws).
Moreover, this was the fourth group stage game in which the Romanian team failed to score. The missed opportunity for a draw cost FCSB a direct spot in the Round of 16. Ultimately, the club finished in 11th place, qualifying for the playoffs.
Probable Lineups
- PAOK: Dominik Kotarski – Abdul Rahman Baba, Giannis Michailidis, Tomasz Kedziora, Honny – Magomed Ozdoev, Stefan Schwab – Kiril Despodov, Taison, Mady Camara – Brandon Thomas
- FCSB: Ștefan Târnovanu – Risto Radunović, Siyabonga Ngezana, Joyskim Dawa, Valentin Crețu – Adrian Șut, Mihai Popescu – Florin Tănase, Malcom Edjouma, David Miculescu – Daniel Bîrălighea
Match Facts and Head-to-Head
- The teams faced each other in the group stage, where FCSB defeated PAOK 1-0 away.
- The "Both Teams to Score" bet won in three of the last four matches.
- The "Over 2.5 Goals" bet hit in two of the last four matches.
Prediction
Bookmakers favor the Greek side in this matchup, with PAOK’s victory odds set at 1.77. However, betting on the outcome seems risky. Our recommendation is the "Under 2.5 Goals" bet at odds of 1.86.
