Panetolikos vs Apollon Smyrnis Match Preview

Panetolikos faces Apollon Smyrnis for Greek Super League playouts.

The hosts come from a draw against Larisa in the previous round, and they remain at the bottom of the table, having 2 points less than Larisa and 3 points from OFI. Their difference might not be that big, but there's no room left for mistakes and every remaining game will be crucial for them. Even a draw here could be welcomed in their effort to extend their presence in the top level of Greek football, so they'll put their best to get at least a point here. 

Apollon Smyrnis started very relaxedly their playout campaign, but their performances so far were disappointing and now they will struggle in the final rounds. However, their 7-point difference from the relegation zone is decent, so if they win here today they will definitely secure their spot. In any case, every point is important for them, so I expect them to play at least for a draw if they are not able to win all the points.

In the last two home games of the regular season, Panetolikos prevailed over Volos and Panathinaikos playing very good football and has shown that they could be very competitive against stronger teams.

The home win is my call for this one since the hosts are in a very difficult situation and have to fight till the end for a good result. Apollon may have won 2 times in the regular season over Panetolikos with the same score (1-0), but I think that this time the match will go the other way. Considering the stronger motivation of the hosts, the offered odds for the home win are acceptable.