AEK and Panathinaikos are in line for a major top-of-the-table Athenian derby that could have massive implications on the title race.

The two rivals will battle it out at “Agia Sophia” Stadium on Monday morning (AEDT) in the Greek Super League’s 18th round, and the contest looms as an important moment in both of their respective campaigns.

The “Trifylli” and Enosi, much like last year, are locked in a fierce battle for the title this term and a victory to either side here would do wonders for their confidence as we slowly approach the business end of the regular season.

Both teams will be wary of dropping points in this game, particularly given that PAOK is also firmly in the title race (currently level with AEK).

The Thessaloniki giants have a much easier fixture by comparison, taking on relegation-threatened Giannina at “Toumba” Stadium in a match they will be eager to win after losing to Aris last weekend.

Olympiacos is hoping to move past their own derby loss to AEK last matchday when they travel to face bottom-placed Kifisia.

The hosts will hope they can nab a draw or even win against the Piraeus giants, with their one advantage being that the “red-whites” could be fatigued following their midweek Cup game against Panathinaikos.

Aris challenges Panetolikos away and they will be desperate to keep their momentum going after downing their crosstown rivals and earning a draw against AEK away in the Cup.

Asteras Tripolis competes with Volos at home and the Arcadians will be striving to overturn their poor form of late, including their loss to Giannina last round as well as being eliminated in the Cup by Panserraikos.

Atromitos faces OFI at home in the round’s opening game on Sunday morning, with the Peristeriotes aiming to extend their unbeaten streak in the league to ten matches.

Meanwhile, Lamia will be striving to overtake Atromitos (who is currently one point ahead of them) when they play Panserraikos at “Athanasios Diakos” ground.

The Fthiotida outfit have fought well thus far to be in contention with both Atromitos and Asteras Tripolis for the much-desired sixth position and games like this loom as pivotal for them in their dream to seal the final play-offs spot.

Greek Super League Rd 18 fixtures (AEDT)

Atromitos-OFI: 04.00, Sun 14 Jan

Lamia-Panserraikos: 05.00, Sun 14 Jan

Panetolikos-Aris: 00.00, Mon 15 Jan

Kifisia-Olympiacos: 02.00, Mon 15 Jan

Asteras Tripolis-Volos: 02.30, Mon 15 Jan

AEK-Panathinaikos: 05.30, Mon 15 Jan

PAOK-Giannina: 05.30, Mon 15 Jan