Approximately 4.5 months after their initial meeting in the Europa League League Phase, PAOK and Celta Vigo face each other again on Thursday in Toumba for the playoff round of the competition, with a coveted spot in the '16' at stake. Much has changed since their last encounter, with PAOK experiencing a rollercoaster domestic season that saw them finish 17th overall after a loss only to Lyon in France, along with a qualification for the Greek Cup final.

The team under coach Razvan Lucescu faces several injury and suspension challenges ahead of the match. Key players including Meité, Konstantelias, Ivanusec, Pelkas, and Despodov will not be available. Additionally, Lucescu himself will be sidelined due to suspension, meaning he will watch the match from the stands, which adds to the team's challenges as they prepare for a crucial playoff clash.

At the OAKA, another significant match is set to take place at 22:00, where Panathinaikos will face Czech side Viktoria Plzen in the same Europa League round. The two teams had previously met during the League Phase in Greece, with that encounter ending in a draw. This week's matches are critical as both Greek teams aim to secure their future in Europe's prestigious competition.