Olympiacos Piraeus returns to the Champions League after a four-year absence, having won the Greek Super League in 2024- 25. Coach José Luis Mendilibar’s side is in rampant form – they have won all three opening domestic games (9 goals scored, 0 conceded)– and will be heavy favorites at home. Pafos FC make their first appearance in the group stage after stunning runs in qualifiers (they went unbeaten in six Champions League qualifying matches). This is the first-ever meeting between these clubs. Olympiacos’ experience (36th group-stage appearance) and recent fortress-like home record (5 wins in last 7 UEFA home games) suggest they aim to dominate possession and press high, while Pafos will likely sit deep and counter.
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Players to Watch: Olympiacos’ new striker Mehdi Taremi (recently scored a brace off the bench) looks sharp, while winger Steven Berghuis can supply creativity. For Pafos, Jaja (scorer of the decisive goal vs Red Star in qualifying) and veteran defender David Luiz (if he plays) are threats on set-pieces.
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Team News: Olympiacos may be without winger Gelson Martins (injury) and right-back Rodinei; reserve keeper Alexandros Paschalakis will start in goal (Tzolakis is suspended). Roman Yaremchuk is managing a knock (likely a sub). Pafos FC are missing centre-backs Kasper Høgh and Isak Määttä due to injuries (Høgh was their top scorer in Norway last year) and may rest Jaja until the second half.
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Probable Lineups: Olympiacos (likely 4-2-3-1): Paschalakis; Ortega, Biancone, Retsos, Costinha; Nascimento, Garcia; Podence, Chiquinho, Strefezza; Taremi. Pafos FC (likely 4-3-3): Michael; Langa, Luckassen, Goldar, Pileas; Sunjic, Pepe; Bruno, Dragomir, Jaja (or Andersen)
Prediction: Olympiacos 2–0 Pafos FC. With home advantage and far greater experience, Olympiacos should control the game.
