Our prediction for this Europa League match:
Tallaght Stadium will host Thursday’s Europa League qualifier between Shamrock Rovers and PAOK. The Eagles are with one foot in the group stages as they crushed Shamrock 4-0 in Thessaloniki, but boss Razvan Lucescu must warn his men against complacency. Even though the Romanian tactician is expected to mix the squad, away win should be considered as PAOK are more of a team than Shamrock Rovers. Russia forward Fedor Chalov is widely expected to start as Brandon Thomas limped off with injury in the first leg.
The Hoops, on the other hand, will have a mountain to climb in the reverse fixture as they need to overcome a four-goal deficit. Considering that Stephen Bradley’s men failed to impress in a 1-1 draw with Galway at the weekend, we believe that punters from all around the globe can find value in betting on the visiting team. Both Johnny Kenny and Rory Gaffney are injured for the home side.
Highlighted Team (PAOK):
PAOK are regarded as one of the most famous clubs in Greece. The club’s biggest rivals are Olympiakos, but they have a great rivalry with local rivals Aris as well. The Double-headed eagle play their home games at Toumba Stadion Thessaloniki and the capacity of the venue is 28 803.
PAOK are a real force to be reckoned with at home, but they often struggle when playing on the travels. The club won their first Greek Superleague title in 1976 and nine years later their clinched their second domestic trophy, finishing the season three points clear of Panathinaikos.
Speaking of the club’s European success, the Black and Whites made it to the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup in the 1973/1974 season, but they were outplayed by Italian giants Milan in the two-legged tie. PAOK were founded on 20 April, 1926 and they play their home games in black and white shirts and black shorts. The club’s away colours are white.