AEK is looking for a win—preferably with plenty of goals, since every point counts in this tournament—as it hosts Panserraikos (5:45 p.m.) in its second match of the League Phase of the Greek Cup.
AEK, which defeated Nestos Chrysoupoli 2-0 in Kavala in the first matchday, aims to finish in the top four of the overall standings to avoid a knockout round and not have to play two days before Christmas. In fact, given that they will also face PAOK at Toumba (October 27–29) in this competition, they cannot afford any losses in their other matches. Their final League Phase match is at home against Asteras AKTOR on December 2.
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Marko Nikolić will certainly make several changes, as he wants to give his team a rest ahead of Sunday’s match against Volos at Panthessaliko Stadium. His selections will also depend on which two players born in 2004 or later he includes in the starting lineup. Competing for those spots are goalkeeper Balamotis, center back Alexiou, right back Christakopoulos, attacking midfielder Kaloskamis, and even 17-year-old forward Argyriou.
The starting lineup is expected to include Vida, Lykoiannis, Georgiev, Kairinen, Zubkov, and Zini, while Mandalos and Koutesa are also vying for a spot. It’s also possible that João Mário will get his first minutes of the season.
Panserraikos began its campaign in the Superbet Greek Cup with a loss to Atromitos in Serres (0-1), while in Superbet League 2 they have one loss and one win and will face Kallithea on the road this Sunday. After the match against “Enosis,” Panserraikos will remain in Livadeia until Sunday for training. There are no injury concerns for the team. Stelios Kitsios, the team’s latest signing, has also been included in the roster.
Referee: Zampalas (Epirus)
Assistant Referees: Matsas (Heraklion), Papadopoulou (Macedonia).
VAR: Moschou (Lasithi)
AVAR: Matsoukas (Euboea)
*photo source: AP
