Panathinaikos faces CSKA 1948 in Sofia for Conference League qualification

Panathinaikos faces CSKA 1948 in Sofia for a decisive UEFA Conference League third qualifying round rematch. Following a 1-1 draw in the first leg at the OAKA stadium, the winner of this match will advance to the playoffs.

Panathinaikos manager Jakob Nederrup faces selection challenges due to several absences, including injuries to players like Ioannis Konstantelias and others. However, the squad is bolstered by the availability of Levi Garcia and Deser, who have been added to the European list. The Greek side aims to improve its defensive stability, which was a concern during the first leg.

CSKA 1948 enters the match with high morale following recent domestic successes. The Bulgarian side is expected to utilize its transition play to exploit spaces left by the Greek favorites. If Panathinaikos advances to the playoffs, they will face the winner of the match between Banik Ostrava and Besiktas.