PAOK host Belgian club Anderlecht on Thursday, Aug. 6, in the first match of the Europa League third qualifying round at Toumba Stadium.
The Greek team aims to take the first step toward the play-offs and the League Phase of the tournament. Italian head coach Alessio Lisci said in a press conference that European matches are difficult to predict, describing the tie as tough and balanced. He said PAOK will look to take advantage of key moments to gain an edge for qualification.
Lisci addressed transfer news regarding Dimitris Giannoulis, saying a completed agreement would be great because the fast player brings quality. He confirmed Zivkovic is well and expected to play. He also welcomed new signing Tom Louchet, brought in primarily as a box-to-box player who can cover other positions. Lisci said Louchet works tirelessly, brings speed and energy, and has the opportunity to prove the choice was correct.
Match preparation and life in Thessaloniki
Lisci noted that Anderlecht will not train at Toumba Stadium. He said he prefers PAOK to train in Belgium at the match venue for the return leg, adding he does not worry about spying after doing the same in Poland. He noted Anderlecht's recent managerial change altered PAOK's tactical analysis, describing the Belgians as balanced with solid experience in attack and defense. He added that neither team is 100 percent ready and both require improvement.
Looking ahead, Lisci praised the incredible atmosphere against Dinamo and expected similar support against Anderlecht. However, he admitted PAOK started poorly in both recent games and must play stronger. On living in Thessaloniki, Lisci said he enjoys the city despite the summer heat. Having studied Ancient Greek in school, he has picked up a few modern words and suggested he might answer press questions in Greek by the end of the season.
