The Europa League group stage kicks off with an intriguing clash between PAOK Thessaloniki and Maccabi Tel Aviv. Both sides arrive in good domestic form and will be eager to start their European campaign with a statement result. The hosts are looking to bounce back after a couple of underwhelming outings, while the visitors travel to Greece on the back of a strong winning streak. With both teams showing attacking intent in recent matches, this encounter promises to be a competitive and potentially high-scoring affair.

PAOK Thessaloniki: Recent Form and Key Stats

PAOK enter this fixture ranked 14th in the Europa League standings and come off a goalless draw against Panaitolikos on September 20, 2025. Despite that stalemate, their overall form has been impressive: in their last five matches, they have recorded 4 wins and 1 draw, scoring an average of 1.8 goals per game while conceding just 0.2. This defensive solidity has been a hallmark of their recent performances, making them a difficult side to break down.

At home, PAOK have been particularly resilient, avoiding defeat at half-time in 18 of their last 20 matches. Their European record also shows signs of defensive strength, with under 0.5 goals scored in 2 of their last 10 home Europa League fixtures. However, their last European outing at home was a commanding 5-0 win over Rijeka, a result that underlines their ability to dominate when they find rhythm in front of their fans.

Despite their recent dip with a 4-1 Greek Cup loss to Levadiakos followed by the draw against Panaitolikos, PAOK remain a side with strong momentum and will be motivated to start their Europa League campaign on the right foot.

Maccabi Tel Aviv: Recent Form and Key Stats

Maccabi Tel Aviv, ranked 16th in the Europa League standings, arrive in Thessaloniki with confidence after a 2-1 win over Hapoel Jerusalem on September 20, 2025. That victory extended their domestic winning streak to four matches, showcasing their ability to grind out results even when falling behind, as they did before Mohamed Camara’s stoppage-time winner.

In their last five matches, Maccabi have collected 4 wins and 1 defeat, averaging an impressive 2.8 goals scored per game while conceding just 0.6. Their attacking consistency is remarkable, with over 0.5 goals scored in each of their last 40 matches across all competitions. In the Europa League, they have also been prolific, scoring in 24 consecutive matches. However, their defensive record in Europe is less convincing, as they have conceded at least once in each of their last 13 Europa League fixtures, including their last 12 away games.

Another notable trend is their tendency for second-half action: over 0.5 goals in the second half have been scored in 36 of their last 40 matches. This suggests that even if the first half is tight, the game is likely to open up after the break. Maccabi’s attacking firepower, combined with their defensive vulnerabilities, makes them a team that almost always guarantees goals.

PAOK vs Maccabi Tel Aviv: Prediction and Tactical Overview

Historically, these two sides met back in 2004, when Maccabi Tel Aviv won both legs in the Champions League qualifiers, one of them awarded after PAOK fielded an ineligible player. While history favors the visitors, current form suggests a more balanced contest. PAOK’s defensive strength and home advantage will be tested against Maccabi’s relentless attacking approach.

PAOK will aim to control the tempo and rely on their defensive organization, while Maccabi are likely to push forward aggressively, looking to exploit any gaps. Given Maccabi’s record of conceding in every recent European away match, PAOK will be confident of finding the net. On the other hand, Maccabi’s scoring streak makes it difficult to imagine them leaving without a goal. This combination points towards a match where both teams are likely to score and where the outcome could hinge on small details.

With both sides in strong domestic form but showing contrasting strengths in Europe, this opening group stage clash promises to be a fascinating battle between PAOK’s defensive discipline and Maccabi’s attacking flair.

PAOK Thessaloniki vs Maccabi Tel Aviv prediction by BetMines:
The statistical analysis indicates the highest probability is for a home win (1) with 51% likelihood. The draw (X) is estimated at 25%, while an away win (2) stands at 24%.