Our prediction for this Champions League match:
Gradski stadion Banja Luka will be packed when Borac Banja Luka and PAOK square off against each other in the closing match of Wednesday’s program. The Bosnian Serbs aim to overcome a one-goal deficit in front of home fans and, one thing is for sure, they are going to leave their hearts on the field. The good news for the hosts is that head coach Mladen Zizovic is back from suspension.
The Black and Whites, on the other hand, aim to defend their slim lead in the reverse fixture. As PAOK are likely to adopt a cautious approach in the second leg, we are tempted to place our bets on under 2.5 goals. A man to keep an eye on in the away team will be talented midfielder Konstantinos Koulierakis, who scored a brace in the first leg. Brandon Thomas should keep his place up front despite failing to find the net in the 3-2 win over Borac Banja Luka.
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.