D. Zagreb – PAOK : Preview & Prediction
For the third time since 2018, Dinamo Zagreb of Croatia have reached the round of 16 of a major European competition after pulling off an upset by beating Real Betis 2-1 in the playoff round of the UEFA Europa Conference League (UECL). After securing a 1-0 away win in Seville, the “Blues” kept their cool to get over the line in the second leg and now only PAOK stand between Dinamo and their first European quarter-final appearance since 2020/21.
Now unbeaten in their last nine official matches (G6, E3), Dinamo appear to be moving in the right direction as they seek success both domestically and in Europe in their battle to win the Croatian top flight. Given that those six wins during that streak were without conceding goals, producing another strong defensive performance here at Stadion Maksimir will likely be the best way to secure an advantage in the first leg.
PAOK arrive in Croatia in great form, winning each of their last three official matches, which has helped them return to the top of the Greek Super League. Their imperious performance in the UECL group stage secured their passage to the Round of 16, as they won Group G with ease and were undefeated in their six appearances (G5, E1).
The Greeks also have a 100% record against this opponent, which should further boost their confidence, winning the last two meetings between these teams 1-0 during the 2010/11 Europa League. A second quarterfinal appearance in this competition awaits if they maintain that record, and their good away form suggests PAOK have a good chance, having won 11 of their last 13 away games in all competitions (P2).
Players to watch: Dinamo Zagreb’s Bruno Petković has scored 14 goals in all competitions this season, five of which have come in the UECL and four of which have been at home. Kiril Despodov, who has converted 12 official goals for PAOK this season, will look to eclipse him and both of his UECL goals were away from home.
Key stat: 13 of PAOK’s 16 goals in the UECL this season have come in the second half.
D. Zagreb – PAOK : Betting Tips
Draw Odds: 3.25
