Samsunspor vs AEK Athens Preview Prediction Team News and Expected Lineups
As the UEFA Europa Conference League reaches a pivotal point, Samsunspor will host AEK Athens on Thursday. This match is critical for both teams as they seek to strengthen their positions in the group standings.
Samsunspor’s Recent Performance
Samsunspor currently holds the top position in the Conference League group. They achieved this status with three consecutive victories, not allowing a single goal. However, their momentum faltered in the last round with a 2-2 draw against Breidablik, marking their first points dropped. This has contributed to a four-game winless streak for the Turkish club, including a 3-2 defeat to Galatasaray in the Turkish Super Lig.
Home Advantages
Despite the recent setbacks, Samsunspor’s home performance in Europe is impressive. They have won six of their last eight home games. This includes convincing victories over Hamrun Spartans and Dynamo Kyiv, where they kept clean sheets in both matches. The team will aim to leverage their home advantage against AEK Athens.
AEK Athens: Aiming for Improvement
Meanwhile, AEK Athens travels to Turkey with aspirations of securing an automatic qualification spot. Currently in 10th place in the group, they are just one point shy of entry into the top eight. After a rocky start with a 3-1 loss to Celje, AEK bounced back with a 6-0 rout of Aberdeen and a narrow 1-0 victory against Fiorentina.
Recent Form and Away Challenges
AEK Athens boasts a strong run, with six consecutive wins across competitions and an unbeaten streak of nine matches (eight wins and one draw). However, their away performances in Europe have been inconsistent, winning only one of their past six matches.
Head-to-Head History
This match marks the first encounter between Samsunspor and AEK Athens. Historically, Samsunspor has had a slight edge against Greek teams, not losing in four of six previous matches. In contrast, AEK has struggled against Turkish opponents, achieving only three wins from nine encounters.
Team News
Samsunspor will miss several key players due to injuries, including Ebrima Ceesay and Tanguy Coulibaly. Marius Mouandilmadji remains a pivotal player, having scored multiple goals in recent fixtures.
AEK Athens will be without Frantzdy Pierrot and Zini due to injury issues. Mijat Gacinovic’s status is uncertain after leaving a recent match with an injury. Aboubakary Koita is a player to watch after consistently scoring in crucial moments.
Predicted Lineups
- Samsunspor: Kocuk; Yavru, Borevkovic, Van Drongelen, Tomasson; Makoumbou; Musaba, Holse, Ntcham, Kilinic; Mouandilmadji
- AEK Athens: Strakosha; Rota, Moukoudi, Relvas, Pilios; Pineda, Marin; Koita, Gacinovic, Mario; Jovic
Match Prediction
In a matchup characterized by tactical depth, our prediction favors Samsunspor to secure a 2-1 victory over AEK Athens. Their solid home performance and defensive strength in continental matches give them a slight advantage going into this important fixture.
