PAOK’s championship dreams are in serious jeopardy as they prepare for an anxious game against Olympiacos that could make or break their season.
The double-headed eagle of the North make the trip to “Karaiskakis” stadium on Thursday morning (AEST) in the third round of the Greek Super League and the pressure is high for both clubs.
PAOK is in dire need of a win to remain in contention for the title, having suffered a significant loss to AEK last round to fall six points behind them.
The Piraeus giants have their own ambitions to protect, especially after their draw with Aris last matchday saw them miss an opportunity to gain ground on the league leaders.
Olympiacos will be eager to make up for that poor result and keep firmly in the premiership race.
Aris challenges Panathinaikos in another high-stakes game at “Kleanthis Vikelidis” ground, with the “Trifylli” craving a huge scalp to kickstart their play-offs campaign.
The Greens have so far recorded consecutive draws which has allowed AEK to go level with them on the ladder and with only six points separating them from PAOK (4th), they cannot afford another setback.
The Thessaloniki outfit, meanwhile, is in good spirits after willing themselves to an away draw against Olympiacos last weekend and they will do all they can to keep that momentum going.
Aris also has their own mini battle with Volos for fifth place which would secure them a European qualifying spot, meaning they too have all to play for as they hope to deliver another blow to Panathinaikos’ pursuit of a first league title since 2010.
AEK travels to face the Magnesia outfit as they strive to consolidate first following their huge win over PAOK.
Despite being on equal points, Enosi sit in first due to having a better head-to-head record with the “Trifylli” and they will not be keen to relinquish it.
Volos will attempt everything in their power to earn another impressive result to advance their cause for a European spot which, if successful, would produce even further chaos in the gripping championship battle that has all four of Greece’s major clubs on the edge of their seats.
