PAOK VS GRANADA MATCH PREVIEW

PAOK VS GRANADA MATCH PREVIEW


By Alexander Koutakos



After PAOK’s first match draw against Omonia, all eyes are now set for PAOK’s match against Granada (MD.2).


In PAOK’s previous UEL tie against Omonia, PAOK looked very shaky at the start, conceding a 16th minute goal thanks to Eric Beautheac. However, PAOK did respond with a 54th minute goal by Thomas Murg. As a PAOK fan it was nice to see your team not give up and play until the final whistle.


For Granada the start was also somewhat shaky, as Granada conceded a goal just before half-time through Mario Gotze(PSV). As a neutral it was quite nice to see Mario Gotze regain his form. However, it was not PSV’s night. Granada came thundering back with 2 goals from Molina and Machis respectively. Overall for Granada it was a majestic away display.


Prediction of each team’s respective line-up and Formation:


Prediction of PAOK’s line-up 

(3-4-3)

Z. Zivkovic(GK)

Michailidis,Varela, Ingason,

Giannoulis, Esiti, Schwab, Wague, 

A.Zivkovic, Colak and Murg.


Prediction of Granada’s line-up (4-5-1)

Silva (GK)

Neva,Vallejo, Sanchez, Foulquier, 

Gonalons, Machis, Milla, Herrera, Puertas 

Molina


PAOK’s Latest 5 Game Form: DLWDD


Granada’s Latest 5 Game Form: WDWWW


Based on recent form, Granada does have a significant advantage.  Furthermore, PAOK recently have been quite underwhelming.


PAOK’s Injuries and doubtful players: El Kaadouri and Vierinha.


Granada Injuries and doubtful players: Soldado, Lozano and Azeez.


Prediction Of The Game Itself:


I predict that the game will end in a 0-0 draw. Furthermore, both teams have suffered from flabby finishing recently, by their respective strikers(Colak and Molina).

 

In addition to that, Z. Zivkovic and R.Silva have played quite well in their recent fixtures. 


If there will be scoring in this game, it will either come from a Giannoulis (PAOK) cross or a Machis (Granada) “Turbo Run” from the midfield.


For Which Team Is This Game The Most Important?


This one is a no brainer, PAOK. After matchday 1, PAOK have a lot to do if they want to make it to the UEL round of 32. For me Granada will make it to the round of 32. 


They are a well disciplined side with a strong core. PAOK on the contrary, can sometimes look like a depleted side, especially when Andrija Zivkovic is on the bench.


Standings After Matchday 1


Granada - 3PTS 

Omonia-1 PT*

PAOK-1 PT

PSV -0 PT


*Omonia is ahead of PAOK due to their away goal.


Hellas Football


 

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