PAOK Thessaloniki FC will face Lamia in the Super League on February 16, 2025. The game will take place at the iconic Toumba Stadium in Thessaloniki, Greece. With a crowd of 28,703 expected, PAOK aims to strengthen their position near the top of the table. They’re currently 4th with 40 points, making them strong contenders, especially after last year’s championship win. In contrast, Lamia is at the bottom with only 9 points, desperately seeking survival in a tough season.
PAOK recently showed their strength by beating OFI Crete 5-0, boosting their confidence. Lamia, however, has had a harder time, losing five games in a row without scoring. They really need to find the net to spark some hope. Key players to watch include PAOK’s top scorer Mohamed Mady Camara, who has scored six times this season. For Lamia, their new defender Dimitris Chantakias could provide some much-needed defense.
PAOK Thessaloniki FC vs Lamia Prediction & Betting Tip
Given the current form of both teams, PAOK is the favorite to win. Their powerful attack and home advantage make a strong case for a clear victory. But, PAOK has the occasional defensive slip, which might give Lamia a rare chance to score.
Recommended Bet:
| PAOK Thessaloniki FC vs Lamia Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting tip | Odds |
| PAOK Thessaloniki FC to Win | – |
The betting advice suggests that both teams might score. PAOK’s attack, combined with some defensive gaps, and Lamia’s desperate need for goals, implies PAOK will likely win, but goals from both sides could be expected.
PAOK Thessaloniki FC vs Lamia Odds
PAOK is strongly favored due to their solid performances and stronger team. Their odds show a clear edge over Lamia. Lamia’s odds reflect their struggles, but there’s always some unpredictability in football.
Betting Odds:
| PAOK Thessaloniki FC vs Lamia Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| PAOK Thessaloniki FC Win | 1.15 |
| Draw | 7.00 |
| Lamia Win | 14.00 |
These odds highlight PAOK’s favoritism, with a significant tilt towards a home win. Nonetheless, a draw or a Lamia win could provide a good return for those willing to take a risk.
PAOK Thessaloniki FC Team Analysis
PAOK Thessaloniki FC Recent Performance
PAOK shows great form having won three out of their last five league games. Their big win over OFI Crete highlights their scoring power and dynamic play.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| PAOK Thessaloniki FC | OFI Crete | 5-0 |
| AEK Athens | PAOK | 2-1 |
| PAOK Thessaloniki FC | Real Sociedad | 0-1 |
| PAOK Thessaloniki FC | Aris | 3-0 |
| Panathinaikos | PAOK | 0-1 |
Their strategy focusing on possession and taking advantage of opponents’ weaknesses has worked well. Yet, some defensive mistakes need attention.
PAOK Thessaloniki FC Key Players
Goalkeeper Dominik Kotarski is notable for his clear sheets, offering a reliable last defense line. In defense, Juan Sastre and Giannis Michailidis offer solid backup. In the midfield, Shola Shoretire and Stefan Schwab are key in pushing the team forward. The attacking partnership of Mbwana Samatta and Giannis Konstantelias capitalizes on scoring chances. Mohamed Mady Camara’s scoring ability is crucial for PAOK’s attack.
PAOK Thessaloniki FC Suspensions & Injuries
PAOK is dealing with a few injuries which might affect their lineup and tactics:
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Jonathan Gómez | Concussion | TBA |
| Dejan Lovren | Ankle injury | TBA |
| Tiemoué Bakayoko | Calf injury | TBA |
| Jiri Pavlenka | Virus | TBA |
Lovren and Bakayoko’s absences could hit hard on their defensive and midfield strength. The medical team will closely review their progress.
PAOK Thessaloniki FC Tactics and Formation
Expect PAOK to play a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on wing play and midfield control. Their tactics involve maintaining possession and high pressing. Led by Juan Sastre the defense is crucial for transitions through the midfield to create attacking chances. The striking duo of Mbwana Samatta and Giannis Konstantelias are vital for executing coach Lucescu’s plan.
Lamia Team Analysis
Lamia Recent Performance
Lamia’s recent form is troubling highlighted by a series of losses showing tactical and technical issues. Their defense is regularly breached, conceding ten goals in five games, with no goals scored.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Lamia | Asteras Tripolis | 0-1 |
| Lamia | Olympiakos | 0-2 |
| Aris | Lamia | 3-0 |
| Lamia | Volos | 0-2 |
| AEK Athens | Lamia | 2-0 |
Their only victory this season was against Panetolikos. Reinforcing their midfield is essential to stop losses and regain some hope.
Lamia Key Players
Goalkeeper Alvaro Ratón brings experience and toughness. Defender Carles Soria newly signed aims to bolster a shaky defense.
The midfield hinges on Gustavo Furtado and Vasilios Sourlis to disrupt the opposition and create counter-attacks. Forward Andres Chavez is their main offensive hope though recently struggling. Dimitris Chantakias also new seeks to stabilize and strengthen the team.
Lamia Suspensions & Injuries
Lamia’s injury details are currently unavailable but any absence could significantly alter their tactics. Fielding the fittest team is necessary while they adapt strategies as needed.
Lamia Tactics and Formation
Lamia might use a 4-5-1 setup enhancing defense with select counter-attacks and quick transitions. The defense led by Carles Soria and Gotzamanidis must stay solid and organized. The midfield unit’s role is to disrupt PAOK’s style converting defensive actions into attacks. With Chavez upfront, long balls will be key to challenging PAOK’s defense.
PAOK Thessaloniki FC vs Lamia Head-to-Head Statistics
Historically PAOK has dominated head-to-head matches, securing four wins in their last five meetings. Lamia managed a draw only once in April 2024, showing their occasional ability to challenge PAOK.
| Home | Away | Result |
|---|---|---|
| PAOK Thessaloniki FC | Lamia | 2-1 |
| Lamia | PAOK | 1-1 |
| PAOK Thessaloniki FC | Lamia | 3-0 |
| Lamia | PAOK | 0-3 |
| PAOK Thessaloniki FC | Lamia | 4-0 |
The previous encounters have been largely in PAOK’s favor showing off their strong attacking nature and consistent results.
Venue and Weather
The game is at Toumba Stadium where PAOK fans make it tough for visitors. An expected chilly evening, around 10°C, means perfect conditions for intense football.
With moderate winds at 10-15 km/h altering long passes, players must adjust their accuracy. A light drizzle might make the pitch slippery affecting control and footing. These conditions though minor are unlikely to significantly influence the match.
Local players, used to Thessaloniki’s February weather should adapt effortlessly, potentially giving PAOK an extra edge.
To sum up, the match between PAOK and Lamia could be captivating. PAOK’s attack meets Lamia’s defensive efforts. Both teams need to tactically manage the conditions to gain advantage.
