Europa League 2025-2026: Paok Thessaloniki-Maccabi Tel Aviv, the likely lineups

The Toumba Stadium in Thessaloniki will host the challenge between Paok and Maccabi Tel Aviv, valid for the first day of the Europa League group stage. Both teams reached this round by winning their respective playoffs: the Hellenes overcame Rijeka by thrashing (5-0) the hapless Croatians after the first leg defeat (0-1), while Maccabi eliminated Dinamo Kiev thanks to a 3-1 first leg victory, holding on in the return leg (0-1).

The Greeks make their European debut after a 0-0 home draw against Panaitolikos in the league. After four days of Super League, Lucescu Jr.’s team leads the standings with 10 points, tied with Olympiacos and Aek.

Maccabi Tel Aviv returns to the Europa League group stage after a disappointing participation last year, which ended with just two wins from eight matches. The Israelis come to this match after beating Hapoel Jerusalem 2-1 in the last league round. It will be played at 6:45 p.m.

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Probable lineups

Paok (4-2-3-1): Pavlenka; Baba, Lovren, Kedziora, Sastre; Ozdoev, Meite; Taison, Konstantelias, Zivkovic; Giakoumakis. All: Lucescu.

Maccabi Tel Aviv (4-3-3): Mishpati; Asante, Camara, Sholomo, Revivo; Sissokho, Belic, Peretz; Davida, Nicolaescu, Madmon. All: Lazetic.

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