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Possible Outcome
2 - 1
Europa League Europa League

Real Sociedad
vs

20:00:00

PAOK Thessaloniki FC

Reale Arena
Thursday, January 30th, 2025
Prediction
1X

Full Time Result

60%
Probability

Europa League Match Preview: Real Sociedad vs. PAOK - Lineups

Real Sociedad is gearing up for a crucial encounter against PAOK in the eighth round of the Europa League, as they seek to break a frustrating streak of three consecutive losses across all competitions. The Basque club finds itself in a pivotal moment, sitting just one point shy of securing a coveted place in the knockout stages of the tournament. This impending opportunity is likely to influence their strategy for the match, prompting them to adopt a more cautious and calculated approach as they aim to stabilize their performance and regain momentum.

In terms of team dynamics, Real Sociedad will be without the services of left-back Aihen Munoz, who is serving a one-match suspension due to disciplinary reasons. His absence could impact the team's defensive structure and overall balance on the field. Additionally, the squad is grappling with injuries to key players, including Hamari Traore and Arsen Zakharyan, both of whom are sidelined and unable to contribute to the team's efforts. Their injuries add another layer of challenge for the coaching staff as they prepare for this important fixture.

On the other side of the pitch, PAOK comes into this match with a sense of confidence after their recent victory over Slavia Prague, where they secured a solid 2-0 win in round seven. This triumph has propelled them closer to clinching a spot among the top 24 teams in the competition, and they will be eager to build on this momentum. Given the stakes for both teams, it is likely that both PAOK and Real Sociedad would be content with a draw from this encounter, as it would serve their respective objectives in the tournament.

The match is shaping up to be a tactical battle, with both sides weighing the risks and rewards of their strategies. For those interested in betting, the prospect of a draw appears to hold significant value, considering the cautious mindset both teams may adopt. Furthermore, PAOK's Serbian forward Andrija Zivkovic is currently facing a race against time to recover from his injury and be fit for this decisive match. His potential absence could be felt in the attacking line, while Austria international Thomas Murg remains unavailable due to illness, further complicating PAOK's preparations.

As the teams prepare to clash, the atmosphere is expected to be charged with anticipation, as both clubs understand the importance of this match in the context of their European campaigns. With Real Sociedad looking to end their losing streak and PAOK aiming to solidify their position in the tournament, fans can expect a fiercely contested battle on the pitch. The outcome of this match could have significant implications for both teams as they navigate the complexities of the Europa League, making it a must-watch event for supporters and neutrals alike. 

Real Sociedad possible starting lineup:
Remiro; Aramburu, Zubeldia, Aguerd, Lopez; Turrientes, Zubimendi, Sucic, Gomez; Kubo, Oyarzabal

PAOK possible starting lineup:
Kotarski; Otto, Kedziora, Michailidis, Baba; Camara, Pena; Despodov, Konstantelias, Taison; Chalov

LINE UP

Real Sociedad
First XI

4-4-2

13
Marrero
2
Odriozola
6
Elustondo
21
Aguerd
17
Gomez
7
Barrenetxea
4
Zubimendi
23
Mendez
28
Marin
11
Becker
9
Oskarsson
71
27
Ozdoev
22
Schwab
77
Despodov
2
Mady
11
19
16
Kedziora
5
Michailidis
21
Rahman
42
Kotarski

PAOK Thessaloniki FC
First XI

4-5-1

Real Sociedad Substitute
Player Name Position Shirt No
Imanol Alguacil Coach
Alex Remiro Substitute player 1
Igor Zubeldia Substitute player 5
Arsen Zakharyan Substitute player 8
Mikel Oyarzabal Substitute player 10
Javi Lopez Substitute player 12
Takefusa Kubo Substitute player 14
Jon Olasagasti Substitute player 16
Jon Pacheco Substitute player 20
Benat Turrientes Substitute player 22
Luka Sucic Substitute player 24
Jon Aramburu Substitute player 27
Jon Martin Substitute player 31
PAOK Thessaloniki FC Substitute
Player Name Position Shirt No
Razvan Lucescu Coach
Konstantinos Balomenos Substitute player 54
Antonis Tsiftsis Substitute player 99
Giannis Konstantelias Substitute player 7
Fedor Chalov Substitute player 9
Omar Colley Substitute player 15
Juan Sastre Substitute player 23
Konstantinos Thimianis Substitute player 25
Shola Shoretire Substitute player 47
Dimitrios Kottas Substitute player 90