Panathinaikos take on the visitors Ajax in the first leg semifinals of UEFA Europa League qualification. The match will be played on Thursday, August 8th at Olympic Stadium of Athens (Athens).
Panathinaikos last won the national championship in 2010. Two seasons ago, they had a chance to finally achieve the coveted title but ended up only in second place. Moreover, they couldn’t maintain even this position, finishing fourth this spring. However, they finally managed to win the national cup (their 20th trophy, matching their number of league titles). This victory allowed them to enter the qualifiers, though for the Europa League instead of the Champions League like the previous year. They confidently overcame their first opponent, Botev. At home, they secured a narrow 2-1 victory, but in Plovdiv, they won 4-0, with Jeremejeff scoring twice to seal the deal by the 50th minute.
| 2 x £10 Free Bet | Review | |||
| 100$-500$ for No Lose Free Bets | Review | |||
| 100% up to £200 | Review | |||
| Not available | Review |
Ajax have to settle for the Europa League. The "Red and Whites" endured a dreadful season, setting several unwanted records. However, they made a smart move by appointing John van 't Schip, who managed not only to lift the team from the relegation zone (yes, they dropped that low, albeit briefly) but also got them into the top 5. This secured at least a Europa League spot for the team. They started the campaign with a new coach, Farioli (the first Italian to manage in Amsterdam). Interestingly, Vojvodina almost spoiled Francesco’s debut. In the first home match, the Dutch giants struggled to score, only managing to do so in the 86th minute through van den Boomen. In Serbia, Sutalo scored the opening goal, only to later net an own goal. However, Traore’s assist and goal secured a 3-1 victory for the Dutch visitors.
The Greeks have a win from 2019, but it was in a friendly match. Even in friendlies, the Dutch have a 2-1 advantage. The only official encounter was in the Nations League group stage in 2016, where the "Red and Whites" won both matches. While Panathinaikos shouldn’t be written off, it seems the Dutch side feels quite confident. The prediction is for Ajax to avoid defeat in Athens.
Prediction for the match: Ajax not to lose (X2).
