LYON, France (Interstat) — A surging PAOK side will look to continue its dominant domestic form on the European stage when it visits French powerhouse Olympique Lyonnais in a Europa League knockout round match on Thursday.

The clash at Groupama Stadium pits a Lyon team accustomed to continental success against a PAOK squad riding a wave of confidence from a relentless run in Greece’s Super League.

Lyon, the home side, advanced to this stage by finishing second in its group. It enters the match with momentum from a 1-0 away victory over Switzerland’s Young Boys on Jan. 22. Under manager Pierre Sage, Lyon has shown a strong defensive record in Europe this season, keeping clean sheets in four of its six group stage matches. Their European campaign has been built on efficiency, with multiple 2-0 victories.

PAOK, however, presents a formidable and in-form challenge. The Greek club is in scintillating form, having won its last five matches across all competitions by a combined score of 14-1. This includes a statement 2-0 away win against Spanish side Real Betis in the Europa League group stage on Jan. 22 and a comprehensive 4-1 league victory over Kampan Chalastras this past Saturday.

The visiting team’s recent domestic results underscore its threat: a 3-0 win over OFI, a 3-1 away win at Makedonikos Foufas, and a notable 2-0 away victory at rival Olympiakos. This streak has propelled PAOK to the top of the Greek Super League standings.

Historically, Lyon holds a significant advantage in European pedigree, but PAOK’s current momentum makes this a compelling tactical battle. Lyon will rely on its organized defense and home support, while PAOK will aim to translate its high-scoring domestic prowess to the away leg of a European tie.

According to the Interstat game simulator, the projection favors a tight, low-scoring affair with Lyon edging it 1-0.

The winner of this two-legged tie will advance to the round of 16 of Europe’s secondary club competition. For PAOK, the match is followed by a crucial domestic title chase, with a home game against Panserraikos slated for Sunday. Lyon’s focus is squarely on securing a positive result ahead of the return leg in Thessaloniki.