Apollon Pontou - Veria

Greece - Super League 2, Group A, Round 27

Apollon Pontou Analysis: Apollon Pontou continues to face each match as a final in their quest for survival, securing victories against Panathinaikos B' (2-1) and Macedonian with a comeback. These wins have propelled them closer to securing their place in the league, although recent results on Sunday have made their situation more challenging. In their previous match in Nea Efkarpia, they fell behind in the 11th minute but turned the game around in the replay. Lampiris equalized in the 65th minute, and in the 88th minute, Esalos secured all three points in a counterattack. Currently, they sit in 10th place, three points clear of the relegation zone. However, they still have two matches remaining (away against AEL and home against ASA) in addition to the upcoming fixture, as they have yet to have their second day off. A victory against Veria would significantly enhance their chances of remaining in the league.

In terms of team news, Dimitris Kalaitzidis rarely discloses the players available for selection. It is known that Fokaidis is injured, and Kostikas underwent surgery for a cruciate ligament tear. There is no information regarding other absences.

Veria Analysis: Last year's champion of the northern group finds themselves on the verge of relegation, suffering consecutive defeats, including a recent 3-1 loss at home against AEL. Their overall performance has been poor, as they found themselves trailing by two goals in the first half (10', 34'). They managed to reduce the deficit with a goal from Belevoni early in the replay and had opportunities to equalize. However, their hopes were dashed in the 78th minute. With a new coach, Nikos Karydas, who replaced the resigned Spyros Baxevanos, Veria cannot afford any more losses. After Sunday's results, they currently sit in 11th place, two points below the safety zone. A victory against Apollon Pontou is crucial for their survival, considering their challenging schedule ahead, which includes matches against ASA at home, Iraklis Larisa, and Diagoras Rhodes away.

In terms of competition news, Veria's preparations have been completed without any significant issues. The service technician Nikos Karydas will not have the services of Bletsas, who is serving a suspension (yellow card), and Fasidis, who is injured. On the positive side, Ze Essono returns from leave, and Kapsalis has recovered from his injury.

The outcome of the match between Apollon Pontou and Veria carries significant implications. A victory for Apollon Pontou would greatly improve their chances of avoiding relegation, although a draw would still be favorable. On the other hand, Veria desperately needs all three points, as anything less would require them to secure wins in all of their remaining matches to stay in the division. The unpredictability surrounding Veria's performance adds an element of uncertainty to the outcome.