Panathinaikos will be looking to continue their fine start to the Europa League on Thursday, as they come up against Rennes in Athens. Both sides will still be targeting a top spot finish in the standings, and this week’s showdown could be crucial for both teams.
Europa League Preview
It has been a strong start to the Europa League for Panathinaikos this term, despite many believing that they would struggle to finish in one of the top two spots. The Greek giants currently sit top of the Group F standings after winning once in their opening two matches, but they are the only team in the group yet to suffer a defeat.
Rennes will be looking for a big performance this week, as they bid to reignite their dreams of finishing top of the Group F standings. They will be looking to bounce back after falling to a first defeat in the group stage on matchday two, but a victory on Thursday would lift them to the top of the standings.
Panathinaikos have built their impressive record in the competition to this point on their defensive record. They are one of just three sides that are yet to concede in the competition after two rounds of matches. They haven’t managed to keep three clean sheets on the bounce in Europe since the 2009-10 season.
Rennes suffered a 1-0 defeat on matchday two against Villarreal, which saw their eight-game unbeaten run in the Europa League group stages come to an end. However, their record remains strong, which is a boost to their chances this week. Desire Doure has been a key player in the final third for the French side, as he has been involved in 21 open play sequences.
Panathinaikos vs Rennes Head to Head
Panathinaikos will come up against Rennes for the first time on Thursday. They have a fine record against French opposition, having suffered just one defeat in six home matches. Rennes has come up against Greek opposition on just one previous occasion, losing 5-1 against PAOK Salonika in 2005.
Panathinaikos vs Rennes Prediction
This is a crucial match for both sides in the Europa League on Thursday. However, it could be worth siding with the hosts. Panathinaikos have been excellent defensively across their matches to this point, and they have a fine home record against French opposition in Europe.
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