In a matchup that's sure to ignite passions and raise stakes, PAOK welcomes BSC Young Boys to the revered Toumba Stadium on November 6, 2025. With both teams eyeing advancement in the UEFA Europa League, expect an encounter that marries tension with excitement as they battle not only for three crucial points but also for bragging rights in front of a roaring home crowd.
Recent form shows PAOK riding a wave of momentum, celebrating four consecutive wins across all competitions-including a thrilling 4-3 away victory against Lille in the last round of the Europa League. Their offensive prowess has been impressive; with players like Giorgos Giakoumakis and Andrija Živković finding their scoring touch, this side seems to have struck a balance between discipline and creativity. After starting the group stage slowly, sitting at 20th place with just four points, they're keenly aware that every match matters.
On the flip side, BSC Young Boys, currently in 13th place with six points from their three matches, will look to build on their recent success despite a wild ride through their last five games-two victories contrasted by two losses and one draw that ended in a jaw-dropping 3-3 stalemate against Grasshoppers. Joël Monteiro and Christian Fassnacht have emerged as key figures for them, both capable of turning the tide with just a moment's brilliance.
As we approach kickoff, let's take stock of what we might see when these two sides clash tactically. The formations have largely settled into a comfortable 4-2-3-1 for both teams. For PAOK, this structure allows them to exploit space while keeping defensive solidity-a necessary balance considering their need to claw back up the standings. Expect Giorgos Giakoumakis leading the line; his pace and ability to find goal-scoring positions could spell trouble for any defenders who underestimate him.
Meanwhile, for BSC Young Boys, integrating Rayan Raveloson and Armin Gigović into midfield could be crucial against PAOK's energetic press. Their ability to transition quickly from defense to attack can catch opponents off guard-something PAOK needs to manage carefully if they want all three points.
Here's how I foresee both teams lining up:
PAOK
| Position | Player Name |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Antonis Tsiftsis |
| Defender | Greg Taylor |
| Defender | Ioannis Michailidis |
| Defender | Dejan Lovren |
| Defender | Joan Sastre |
| Midfielder | Soualiho Meïté |
| Midfielder | Magomed Ozdoev |
| Midfielder | Taison |
| Forward | Luka Ivanušec |
| Forward | Kiril Despodov |
| Forward | Giorgos Giakoumakis |
BSC Young Boys
| Position | Player Name |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Marvin Keller |
| Defender | Ryan Andrews |
| Defender | Sandro Lauper |
| Defender | Tanguy Zoukrou |
| Defender | Saidy Janko |
| Midfielder | Armin Gigović |
| Midfielder | Rayan Raveloson |
| Midfielder | Joël Monteiro |
| Forward | Sergio Córdova |
| Forward | Christian Fassnacht |
As for what's at stake? Both teams are vying for respectability-let's face it: after years in various European competitions, no club wants their name whispered as "the team that fell short" when it matters most. So buckle your seatbelts; this one promises goals and drama galore!
In terms of betting lines, I wouldn't blame you if you're reaching for those odds right now. Expect something like this:
Betting Odds (UEFA Europa League (World) - November 6, 2025)
- PAOK Win: -120
- Draw: +240
- BSC Young Boys Win: +330
- Over 2.5 Goals: -105
- Both Teams to Score: -140
When it comes time to fill your fantasy roster ahead of this exciting showdown, consider these picks based on current form:
For captain choices or top fantasy picks from PAOK, Giorgos Giakoumakis stands tall-his knack for being in the right place at the right time makes him an irresistible choice for your armband this week. For solid value picks or potential differentiators from Young Boys, Joël Monteiro has proven he can score and assist consistently lately; don't overlook him as part of your squad or chip strategy.
So grab your popcorn! This is shaping up not just as another fixture on the calendar but as an electrifying spectacle packed with intensity-the kind where legends are born under stadium lights!