PAOK is predicted to win their Europa League qualifying match against Wolfsberger AC, leveraging their attacking strength and European experience despite the first leg ending in a draw. Wolfsberger faces an uphill battle as PAOK aims to improve after a slow start, with key players like Luka Ivanusec potentially influencing the game’s outcome.
Wolfsberger AC is set to host PAOK at the Worthersee Stadion this Thursday in a crucial Europa League third qualifying round match. The first leg ended in a 0-0 draw, leaving everything to play for in this return fixture. While Wolfsberger aims to leverage their home advantage, PAOK is favored to secure an away victory and advance in the competition.
Despite the first leg ending in a goalless stalemate, PAOK's potential is undeniable. Wolfsberger will need to bring their A-game to overcome the Greek side, which is expected to be sharper and more cohesive after having shaken off some rust in the first encounter. Let's delve deeper into each team's prospects and what factors might influence the outcome.
Wolfsberger AC's Strategy
Although the match is being played an hour away from their actual home ground in Klagenfurt, Wolfsberger will look to make the Worthersee Stadion their fortress. Coach Dietmar Kuhbauer faces a significant challenge in motivating his squad to not just perform, but to outclass a team of PAOK's caliber. Their recent form has been a mixed bag, with a 2-0 defeat to Altach in the Bundesliga opener, followed by a resilient 0-0 draw in Thessaloniki and a morale-boosting 2-0 league victory against Austria Vienna.
Wolfsberger remains the underdog, but the possibility of advancing to the playoff round, where Rijeka or Shelbourne awaits, is a huge incentive. The Austrian club hasn't reached the group stage of a UEFA competition since 2020, so this match represents a golden opportunity to make a significant mark on the European stage.
Team News for Wolfsberger indicates that they will be without new signing Adama Drame, who is yet to debut due to injury. Key players such as Fabian Wohlmuth are expected to maintain their positions in the starting lineup, while Donis Avdijaj may remain on the bench. The tactical setup and the players' ability to execute it will be crucial in determining their chances of success.
PAOK's Quest for Dominance
PAOK's performance in the first leg suggested that they were still finding their rhythm, with their domestic season still weeks away from commencing. Coach Razvan Lucescu will demand a much-improved showing from his team to prevent a potentially embarrassing exit. Failure to score in the first leg was unexpected, especially considering their reputation as the Greek Super League's top scorers last season. In their pre-season friendlies, they displayed their attacking prowess by netting 10 goals in four matches against formidable opponents.
PAOK's recent European track record includes reaching the Europa League league phase and progressing to the knockout playoff round. This experience gives them a slight edge over Wolfsberger, particularly in managing high-pressure situations. Their previous encounters with Austrian opposition haven't been entirely favorable, with a 3-0 defeat to Rapid Vienna in 2012, a result they will be keen to avoid repeating.
The team news for PAOK reveals that Croatian midfielder Luka Ivanusec could make his first start after coming on as a substitute in the first leg. The goalkeeping situation sees Jiri Pavlenka likely to take the number one spot following Dominic Kotarski's departure. PAOK's blend of experience and new talent could be the key to unlocking Wolfsberger's defense and securing the away win they desperately need.
Key Factors and Predictions
Several factors will play a decisive role in this match. Wolfsberger's home advantage is somewhat mitigated by the game being played at a neutral venue. PAOK's attacking quality and European experience make them favorites, but they must convert their potential into goals. The midfield battle, tactical flexibility, and defensive solidity will also be crucial in determining the outcome.
Considering these factors, PAOK is tipped to secure an away win. Their need to step up after the first leg combined with their superior squad depth and European experience should see them through. Expect a more determined and cohesive performance from the Greek side, culminating in a victory that propels them into the next round of the Europa League qualifiers. The verdict is in favor of an away win, with best odds at 5/4 via Olympusbet.