Anderlecht: early breakthrough puts them in control

Vítor Bruno’s side could hardly have asked for a better start in the opening leg. Mihajlo Cvetković scored inside the first minute, giving Anderlecht an immediate advantage that they successfully protected until the final whistle. The Belgians had also eliminated Hammarby in the previous qualifying round and followed that up with another league victory, edging La Louvière through Adriano Bertaccini’s stoppage-time winner.

Cvetković has quickly emerged as one of Anderlecht’s most important attacking outlets, scoring in both of the club’s Europa League qualifiers so far. However, the hosts are dealing with several fitness concerns. Illai Camara and Lucas Hey are unavailable, while Killian Sardella and Mario Stroeykens remain questionable.

PAOK: chances must finally turn into goals

PAOK have plenty of reasons to feel frustrated after the first leg. Despite controlling possession and producing more attacking opportunities, Alessio Lisci’s team came away empty-handed. With the tie now in a delicate position, the Greeks need to become much more clinical in front of goal if they are to avoid dropping into the Conference League qualifying rounds.

Their European campaign had previously been encouraging, with PAOK sweeping aside Dynamo Kyiv 5-2 on aggregate. Giannis Konstantelias has been a standout performer, scoring three times in European competition this season. Andrija Živković is expected to continue on the right flank, although Taha Ali remains a doubt because of a shoulder problem.

Match facts and head-to-head

Anderlecht take a 1-0 lead into the second leg after winning in Thessaloniki.

Mihajlo Cvetković has scored in both of Anderlecht’s Europa League qualifying matches.

Giannis Konstantelias has already scored three goals in Europe this season.