Aris (home)
- Aris are currently mid-table in the Greek Super League with 25 points from 19 matches, some 19 points behind PAOK at the summit.
- They have one win in their last five, two draws and a 1-0 defeat to Larissa.
- Manolo Jiménez’s side are not prolific goalscorers and can be frustrated easily by compact defensive blocks.
- Aris will be without a few regulars through injury.
PAOK (away)
- PAOK are the in-form team, winning four of their last five games in all competitions, including a 4-1 league victory over Panserraikos and a 2-0 win over Real Betis in the Europa League.
- PAOK sit near the top of the Greek Super League table with 44 points from 18 games, 14 wins, the league's highest goal tally and one of the best defensive records in the division.
Head-to-Head
- The derby has never been a classic, although it is usually very close and tense with two passionate and knowledgeable home crowds giving both sides the confidence to aim for the victory.
- PAOK have won two of the last three matchups and many of the recent meetings have been draws and low-scoring affairs.
Key Players
- Aris
- Midfielders Monchu, Fredrik Jensen and Fabiano are the playmakers that create the chances for a team that has scored 17 goals in 19 matches.
- Lorenzo Jesús Morón is the top scorer for Aris with 3-4 league goals and is the only reliable source for goals.
- PAOK
- Giorgos Giakoumakis is clearly the focal point of PAOK’s attack, but Magomed Ozdoev is another big goal threat from the midfield, having scored around seven league goals this season.
- He is a late runner into the box and dangerous on set-plays, while Taison, Konstantelias and Živković are also creators in these areas.
Prediction
- PAOK are expected to edge the match as they have the better form, more talented players in key areas and deeper squad to overcome any potential injuries.
- PAOK may opt to rotate after their recent European exploits, so the visitors’ squad depth and tactical discipline will be the difference in this matchup.
- Aris will hope they can upset the odds once more on Sunday.
