The PAOK heads into the "G. Karaiskakis" stadium for their crucial derby against Olympiacos, fully aware that the match could be decisive for securing second place and a Champions League spot.

The PAOK team understands the significance of the second position and the Champions League ticket. The match at the "G. Karaiskakis" can prove pivotal for the final standings. All minds are focused on their own result.

The PAOK is also interested in the AEK vs Panathinaikos match at the same time, but the club's logic is clear: first, they must secure a win against Olympiacos and then consider the outcomes of other matches.

In essence, the evening match is a battle for the second place, which leads to the second qualifying round of the Champions League and may bring significant European advantages in the summer.

PAOK currently holds the upper hand after a 3-1 victory against the "red-whites," a result that gives them a potential tie advantage.

The team of Razvan Lucescu traveled to Athens on Saturday, with Hatzi returning to the selections, but Sanchez remaining out, along with Giakumakis, Kamara, Lovren, and Despotov.

As for the lineup, Pavlanka retains his position under the crossbar after several strong performances, while Keni and Bamba will be on the defensive wings, with Kentsiora and Michaelides in the center.

The central midfield presents a dilemma. If Meite starts, then the choice between Zafeiris and Ozdilev will determine the other player, with the former nearing a yellow card.

In front, Constantelis is expected to lead the attack, with Geremegh flanked by Taison and Zivkovic.

There's also a personal incentive for Taison; if he scores, he'll become the oldest scorer in PAOK's history, surpassing Andre Vieirinia.

However, the most important thing for PAOK is to leave Faliron holding onto the chances of the second position. Everyone in the team has understood that the next Champions League could change a lot for the club, both competitively and economically.