PAOK — Maccabi Tel Aviv : Match Preview and Prediction for September 18,2025

Match Prediction and Betting Odds: PAOK vs Maccabi Tel Aviv

According to bookmakers’ forecasts, the Greek club PAOK is considered the favorite for the opening round of the UEFA match against Maccabi Tel Aviv. The odds for a PAOK victory (W1) are set at 1.65, a draw (X) at 3.60, and a Maccabi Tel Aviv victory (W2) at 5.00. Considering the teams’ current form and statistics, the optimal bet appears to be W1 — PAOK victory, as the Greek club consistently delivers strong results on their home ground and possesses a notable advantage in European competition experience.

Analysis of Current Team Form

PAOK’s Current Form

PAOK enters the group stage in excellent form. In their national championship, the team has started confidently with two victories, showcasing solid defensive play and high attacking efficiency. In recent matches, PAOK has consistently secured points, and their home stadium traditionally serves as a fortress for the Greek club. Over the last 15 home matches in European competitions, PAOK has suffered only two defeats, affirming the team’s high level of preparation and psychological resilience on their home turf.Several key players capable of individual brilliance stand out in PAOK’s squad. Central midfielder Andreas Samaris and forward Nelson Oliveira are in superb form, regularly contributing with decisive actions. The coaching staff prioritizes a balanced style of play, emphasizing ball control and rapid transitions from defense to attack. In their latest outings, PAOK has demonstrated effective finishing of goal-scoring opportunities, which is particularly vital in European fixtures where the margin for error is slim.

Maccabi Tel Aviv’s Current Form

The Israeli club concluded last season at the top of their national championship, securing 20 victories in 29 matches, with a goal difference of +37 (66 scored, 29 conceded). Maccabi Tel Aviv also successfully navigated the qualifiers; however, in recent games, the team has encountered certain difficulties. The Israelis failed to secure a win in three of their last five matches, and their defense displayed positional errors.Coach Žarko Lazetić frequently rotates the squad, which impacts team cohesion. Veteran Eran Zahavi shines in attack, but Maccabi traditionally struggles in away European matches. In their last 10 European away fixtures, the club has managed only two victories, often conceding quick goals. The team’s physical readiness is good, yet tactical discipline in defense raises concerns, especially against opponents skilled in swift counter-attacks.

Tournament Standing and Motivation

Both clubs were simultaneously eliminated from the Champions League, which significantly boosts their motivation for a successful campaign. For PAOK, the opening home match presents an opportunity to solidify their group leadership and establish a strong foundation for advancing to the playoffs. Maccabi Tel Aviv, conversely, will aim to secure away points to maintain their chances of competing for second place, though their away performance statistics in Europe do not inspire optimism.

Head-to-Head History

PAOK and Maccabi Tel Aviv have previously met twice in European competitions. Both encounters ended in narrow home victories, reinforcing the importance of home advantage. In these matches, both teams showcased cautious football, with a strong emphasis on defense. However, PAOK more frequently controlled the game and generated a greater number of dangerous scoring opportunities.

Tactical Analysis of the Match

PAOK typically employs a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on a compact defense and swift wide attacks. Key tactical elements include high pressing in midfield and effective utilization of set pieces. Maccabi Tel Aviv operates with a 4-3-3 system, emphasizing ball possession and positional attacks. However, in away matches, the team often shifts to a more defensive 4-5-1 setup, which consequently reduces their attacking potential.The midfield battle will be a crucial factor. PAOK holds an advantage in physicality and speed, enabling them to impose their style of play on opponents. Maccabi Tel Aviv, in contrast, may face difficulties in transitioning from defense to attack, particularly under pressure from the Greek midfielders.

Potential Injuries and Squad Absences

As of the forecast preparation, PAOK reports no significant squad absences; all key players are available for the match. For Maccabi Tel Aviv, the participation of main defender Sean Goldberg is questionable, as he sustained an injury in their last national league match. His absence could weaken the Israeli defense, especially when facing PAOK’s powerful forwards.

Betting Recommendations

Considering the bookmakers’ odds, current team form, and head-to-head statistics, the optimal bet for this match is W1 — PAOK victory. The Greek club benefits from home advantage, stable defensive play, and extensive European competition experience. Maccabi Tel Aviv, despite being the Israeli champions, faces challenges on the road and lacks defensive reliability.An additional recommended bet could be Total Under 2.5 Goals, taking into account the cautious approach of both teams in European matches and the significance of the opening fixture for their group standing. It is anticipated that PAOK will control the game and secure a minimal victory, potentially keeping a clean sheet.Therefore, a bet on PAOK to win at odds of 1.65 appears most justified based on the analysis of form, statistics, and tournament motivation.