The Greeks are on a roll and ready to score again: prediction for PAOK vs AEK Larnaca - 07.07.2026
PAOK
AEK Larnaca
One of this week's friendly clashes features Greek side PAOK taking on Cyprus's AEK Larnaca on Tuesday in Athens. The key factor in favor of the Greek team is their explosive scoring form at the start of the July preseason. I'm offering a bet on this matchup with strong chances for success.
PAOK: Lucescu’s team already looks ready for the season
PAOK come into the match in excellent shape. In two July friendlies, Razvan Lucescu’s side secured two wins, netting eight goals and conceding just once — 4-0 over Westerlo and 4-1 against Beveren.
This form makes the Greek club the clear favorite. PAOK aren’t just winning, they’re dominating in attack: the team moves the ball quickly, presses high, and consistently creates chances through the flanks and set pieces. Against an opponent with a less solid defense, this could be the decisive edge.
AEK Larnaca: attacking threat, but defensive doubts remain
AEK Larnaca have played one friendly in July, beating Helmond 2-1. Earlier, the Cypriots claimed a thrilling 4-3 victory over Aris Limassol, proving they know how to find chances and aren’t afraid to play on the front foot.
But that match against Aris also exposed AEK’s weak spot — the defense gave away far too much. Against a PAOK side that’s averaging four goals per preseason game, such lapses could prove costly. Javi Rozada’s team will likely focus on staying compact and hitting quickly on the break, but containing the Greeks’ offensive pressure won’t be easy.
Match facts and head-to-head
- PAOK have won both of their July friendlies.
- The Greek side have scored eight goals in two games, averaging four per match.
- AEK Larnaca have been productive up front in recent matches, but shipped three goals against Aris Limassol.
Class and form favor the Greeks: prediction for PAOK vs AEK Larnaca
AEK Larnaca are capable of scoring, especially if given room to counterattack. The Cypriot team have already shown they can be prolific, but their defensive instability ahead of a match against such opposition is a real concern.
PAOK are in far more convincing form at the moment. Lucescu’s men are cruising through preseason, scoring freely, and look ready to dictate the tempo. Given the circumstances, we can expect a high-scoring encounter where the Greeks justify their favorite status.