TSC – Olympiacos

Europe - UEFA Europa League, Group A, Round 2

05/10/2023 - 19:45 CET

Olympiacos secured their third consecutive victory in the Super League with a 3-0 win over PAS in Ioannina on October 1st. This marked their first away match in the Greek province this year. The standout performer was Pontense, who scored twice (17', assisted by Ortega, and 23', assisted by Biel). Rodinei added another goal in the 90'+1' minute. PAS posed little threat, while Olympiacos had several significant moments with Biel (15', 47'), El Kaabi (21' 4-4), Doi (69'), Rodiney (76'), and opposing goalkeeper Kleiman thwarted further goals.

In their UEFA Europa League group stage opener on September 21st, Olympiacos was defeated by Freiburg 3-2 in Faliro. They responded with two goals from El Kaabi (40' and 74', assisted by Fortuni) after conceding early goals to Salai (9', due to a mistake by Freire), Griffo (45'+7', penalty, stemming from an offense by Retsos), and Philip (86'). Olympiacos also had a goal from Fortounis (25', from a corner kick) and a disallowed goal by Masoura (45'+2'). There were also complaints about certain refereeing decisions, such as a red card not given to Salai for striking Ese in the face.

In terms of match news, Retsos (A) and Ese (M) are returning in relation to the Ioannina match. Scarpa (ME), Ibora (M), and Freire (A), who suffered a hit during the game against PAS, did not travel to Serbia. Richards (MA) has not yet been included in the rotation, while Brnic (ME) is not part of the European list. Solbaken (ME) has a slight advantage for the starting eleven, but it's not ruled out that one of the key players such as Pontense (ME) or Biel (ME) might play.

Backa Topola is a team that typically creates 2-3 chances even against strong opponents. They have a knack for scoring and counterattacking. Given Olympiacos' recent string of decisive victories, it's crucial for them to rectify their situation in the group.