PAOK captain Andrija Zivkovic insists his side can overturn a 1-0 deficit against Anderlecht to reach the UEFA Europa League play-offs on Thursday.
The Greek team travel to Belgium for the second leg at Constant Vanden Stock Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 9:30 pm on August 13. Zivkovic appeared reserved but fully focused on securing qualification during his pre-match press conference.
The first leg at Toumba Stadium in Thessaloniki on August 6 got off to a difficult start for PAOK when Mihajlo Cvetkovic scored for Anderlecht just 17 seconds into the match. That early goal proved to be the only score of the game.
Reflecting on that opening encounter, Zivkovic acknowledged that PAOK started poorly. He noted that while the Belgian opponents created few scoring opportunities, they managed to score, making it vital for PAOK to maintain full concentration from the opening second in Brussels.
Match preparation and tactical focus
Addressing the challenge ahead, Zivkovic described Anderlecht as a tough opponent but confirmed that PAOK had studied them. He highlighted the need for his team to be better in the final third of the pitch if they are to turn the tie around.
When asked how the squad would feel if the score remained goalless at the 80th minute, the Serbian international remarked that football is unpredictable and goals can come early or late. He stated that the squad had traveled with the clear goal of completing their job and securing qualification.
Form, fitness and opponent praise
Zivkovic also reflected on his own form following a difficult previous season for both himself and the club. He insisted that what is done is done and that the team is now looking at the present to provide answers on the pitch.
Regarding physical discomfort that had affected him recently, the captain dismissed concerns over his fitness, stating that whenever he is seen playing on the field, it means he is fine.
He also spoke warmly of Anderlecht goalscorer Cvetkovic, whom he revealed he has known for years. Zivkovic praised him as an excellent player with great technique who has plenty of time ahead of him to forge a great career.
Club profile and European context
PAOK, a professional football club based in Thessaloniki, are aiming to progress to the play-off round of the UEFA Europa League, Europe's secondary club competition. Anderlecht, based in Brussels, hold the slim 1-0 lead heading into Thursday's deciding fixture.
