The Greek Super League makes its much-anticipated return this weekend and reigning champions PAOK will be eager to start their title defence with a bang as they take on Panserraikos.
The Thessaloniki side launches the new season with a match against the Serres-based club at “Toumba” Stadium on Sunday morning (AEST) in search of a strong victory, especially after their disappointing exit from the Champions League qualifiers.
A win in the opening round would also do wonders in setting the tone of their title defence,
Olympiacos, one of the main premiership threats, commences its campaign with an away outing to Volos, and the Piraeus side will be determined to bag all three points in their first competitive game this term.
Panathinaikos is set to battle Asteras Tripolis at home in their opening league fixture as they too seek a positive start to their league campaign.
The Arcadians will no doubt give their all in search of a result, hoping that the Greens will be fatigued from their midweek European game with Ajax.
AEK, who is also coming off a midweek European contest, takes on OFI at “Agia Sophia” Stadium as they strive for an opening round triumph.
Enosi will be extra motivated to perform well after bowing out of Europe, while the Cretans will hope that they can add to their opponents’ woes.
Aris looks to get their season off to a winning start when they travel away to contest with Atromitos.
Levadiakos hosts Kallithea in an intriguing battle between the two promoted sides, with the clash serving as an early test of who may be the stronger outfit.
Panetolikos is preparing for a visit from Lamia on Tuesday morning, and the Fthiotida club will be striving to begin their season on a high note as they try to match their efforts from last year (finishing in sixth).
Greek Super League Round 1 fixtures (AEST)
PAOK-Panserraikos: 03.00, Sun 18 Aug
Volos-Olympiacos: 03.00, Sun 18 Aug
Levadiakos-Kallithea: 02.00, Mon 19 Aug
Panathinaikos-Asteras Tripolis: 03.00, Mon 19 Aug
Atromitos-Aris: 03.30, Mon 19 Aug
AEK-OFI: 05.00, Mon 19 Aug
Panetolikos-Lamia: 04.00, Tue 20 Aug