A difficult start

PAOK had a successful journey last season in their domestic competitions winning both titles, but now their start in the European tournaments is quite tricky. They target for a spot in the Champions League group stage. Their first opponent Ajax is a team whose performance impressed everyone last year so things are gonna be tough for the Greek champions. PAOK made some new signings that give a boost to the team, but their successful coach Razvan Lucesku left the team for Saudi Arabia. Portuguese Abel Ferreira is their new coach now.

Ajax impressed last season, having won both titles in the Netherlands, while they also had a successful journey in the Champions League, reaching the semi-finals. Except for the positive results, they impressed with their great teamwork and all the top European teams paid attention to their talented players. As they usually do, they sold a couple of their key players and earned millions of euros. Now it's a new start full of challenges and their goal is to thrill everyone again. Their first obstacle for the Champions League group stage is Greek Champions PAOK.

This is a dangerous beginning for PAOK who have to fight against the last year's big surprise. Although the Greek team hasn't played any official games yet, their strong home could push them to get a desirable result. On the other hand, even if Ajax have many newcomers, they remain a team full of quality and talent. Both teams prefer an offensive approach so I expect goals here. Over 2.5 goals is my call.