Panachaiki - Kifisia
Greece - Super League 2, Group B, Round 26
Panachaki suffered their third consecutive defeat, and second upset, this time against OF Ierapetras with a 2-1 scoreline. It's clear that the team's focus is divided due to off-field issues, particularly unresolved financial problems and ongoing appeals that require them to make payments to avoid point deductions. They managed to cover the latest debt to footballer Moustakopoulos, but more decisions loom in the coming week. In terms of their on-field performance, they were fortunate to take the lead in the 37th minute through Larea's shot. However, they quickly conceded an equalizer at the start of the second half. They didn't show much fight to secure a positive result, and the turning point came in the 70th minute. With little motivation in terms of points, they are simply waiting to see how the season unfolds.
In terms of squad news, Panachaki faces several challenges with 17 players available. Giannis Vogiatzis has to deal with the absence of Mytidis, Nikola Karaklaits, Kontochristos, and Linardos due to injury problems. Theodorakis, Tsiaras, and Trimmatis, who have taken legal action against PAE, are also not included in the team.
Recent stats:
- 3 out of 5 matches ended with a "No Goal" outcome.
- Only one win in the last five home matches (1-2-2).
- Only one draw in the last eight matches overall (2-1-5).
Kifissia has dropped points for the third time in their last six matches, settling for another goalless home draw, this time against Olympiakos B'. They had control of the match but struggled in the closing stages. Kifissia had opportunities with Vafea (9'), Tettei (22' hit the crossbar), Gini (26'), and Talal (27'), while they were also threatened twice at the back (12', 20'). Anagnostopoulos made an important save at the start of the second half (58'), and they came close to scoring with Barbosa (65') and Tettei (69'). In the 81st minute, their goalkeeper came to the rescue once again. The final result raises concerns as Kallithea is now within reach, trailing by only two points. The pressure continues due to their unsatisfactory performances, and they need to secure 10 points in the remaining five matches to mathematically secure the championship, considering their head-to-head advantage over the El Paso team (2-0 home win, 3-3 away draw).
In terms of competition news, Giorgos Petrakis will have to cope with two important absences for the upcoming match. Papasavvas is dealing with an injury, while Peios received a suspension due to accumulated yellow cards. As for the rest of the squad, they are available for selection. There's little chance for Kifisia to stumble against Panachai, who lack motivation, have a depleted roster, and face numerous financial problems. We can expect goals in this encounter!