PAOK is in line for a huge challenge against crosstown rivals Aris as they seek a victory over their archenemies to protect their place atop the ladder.

The much-anticipated all-Thessaloniki clash is one of two derbies that headline the Greek Super League’s 17th round, the other being Olympiacos’ match with AEK in what looms as an important opportunity to try gain ground in the premiership race.

Aris will be eager to down their rivals at “Kleanthis Vikelidis” Stadium on Monday morning (AEDT), though they will be dependent purely on their abilities alone with no fans allowed in the ground to cheer them on.

For PAOK, a win here would do wonders to their confidence as they strive to maintain their position in first.

Olympiacos hosts AEK at “Georgios Karaiskakis” Stadium and maximum points are a must for the Piraeus giants, given their shock loss to Lamia midweek allowed Enosi to overtake them on the ladder.

The reigning champions will no doubt give it their all to defeat the “red-whites” inside their own ground, hoping they can successfully maximise on the no fans stipulation.

Panathinaikos has a much easier match by comparison as they take on Panetolikos at “Leoforos” ground, though the Greens will have to be careful they do not take the Agrinio side lightly and drop points in what is essentially a must-win game.

Asteras Tripolis is hoping to keep their momentum going when they travel to face Giannina, with the Arcadians well aware that a win could propel them above Aris into fifth place, if they draw or lose to PAOK.

Atromitos goes away to battle Volos and the Peristeriotes will be keen to build off their victory midweek over Kifisia.

Likewise, Kifisia will hope they can record a better result as their midweek encounter when they meet with Panserraikos away.

The round closes with OFI challenging Lamia at home on Tuesday morning and the Cretans will be absolutely desperate to snap their winless run in the league that has now reached nine matches.

The Fthiotida side is hoping to seal another impressive triumph following their remarkable 1-0 victory against Olympiacos last round.

Greek Super League Rd 17 fixtures (AEDT)

Panserraikos-Kifisia:  00.00, Mon 08 Jan

Volos-Atromitos:  00.00, Mon 08 Jan

Panathinaikos-Panetolikos:  02.00, Mon 08 Jan

Giannina-Asteras Tripolis:  02.30, Mon 08 Jan

Aris-PAOK:  04.30, Mon 08 Jan

Olympiacos-AEK:  06.00, Mon 08 Jan

OFI-Lamia:  05.00, Tue 09 Jan