The rivalry between PAOK and Olympiacos is one of the fiercest in Greek football, loaded with history and passion.
This article dives into the head-to-head record of PAOK vs. Olympiacos, looking at key moments, and memorable players that have shaped this intense matchup. We’ll pay particular attention to how PAOK has fared when playing at Olympiacos’ home stadium.
Head-to-Head Record at Karaiskakis Stadium
When Olympiacos and PAOK face off at Olympiacos’ home stadium, Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium in Piraeus, history is on the Red-and-White’s side.
Overall Statistics
In 71 matches played at Karaiskakis, Olympiacos has dominated, racking up 49 victories to PAOK’s 13, with 9 draws.
Recent Trends
However, the tide may be turning. In their last 10 visits to Piraeus, PAOK has notched 4 wins and a draw, while Olympiacos has won 5 times.
Even more recently, PAOK has won the last two regular season games played at Karaiskakis, in 2022-23 and 2023-24. Can they continue their winning streak?
Key Moments and Memorable Matches
The rivalry between PAOK and Olympiacos is etched in history with moments of triumph, heartbreak, and sheer determination. Here are a few highlights.
Historical Victories
One of PAOK’s most resounding victories came on January 4, 1976, with a stunning 4-0 win at Olympiacos. This victory remains a significant milestone in the rivalry, showcasing PAOK’s ability to dominate even on enemy turf.
Unbeaten Streaks and Their Endings
Olympiacos enjoyed a long unbeaten streak of 17 matches at their renovated stadium until PAOK’s visit on October 16, 2005. PAOK shattered that streak, marking a pivotal moment in their rivalry. A more recent example is PAOK’s 1-0 victory on July 12, 2020, which ended another Olympiacos’ unbeaten run.
Memorable Defeats
Even in defeat, there are memorable moments. Take the 4-3 loss on February 23, 2003, despite Pantelis Kafes’ remarkable hat-trick. These games, though ending in defeat, are remembered for the passion and drama they encapsulate.
Notable Players and Goalscorers
PAOK and Olympiacos have a long history, and some players have made a real impact on the outcome of these matches. One name that stands out is Pantelis Kafes. On February 23, 2003, Kafes became the only PAOK player to ever score a hat-trick in an away game against Olympiacos.
Giorgos Koudas also boasts an impressive scoring record against Olympiacos, with 3 goals in away matches and 4 in home matches.
Finally, Stavros Sarafis scored 6 goals in all matches against Olympiacos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Olympiacos and PAOK rivals?
Yes, Olympiacos and PAOK have a fierce rivalry, considered one of the biggest in Greek football. Matches between these two clubs are always highly charged and often marked by intense fan support and passionate displays on and off the field. The rivalry stems from a combination of factors, including geographical differences, historical events, and competing ambitions for domestic dominance.
Is PAOK a good team?
Yes, PAOK is considered one of the top teams in Greece. They’ve won multiple Greek Super League titles and Greek Cups, consistently competing for top honors in the domestic league. They also regularly participate in European competitions, showcasing their talent on an international stage.
Where is PAOK Thessaloniki from?
PAOK (Panthessalonikeios Athlitikos Omilos Konstantinoupoliton) is based in Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city. The club was founded in 1926 by refugees from Constantinople (now Istanbul), giving it a strong historical connection to the Greek diaspora.
Who is Olympiacos’ rivals?
Olympiacos has several rivals, but their biggest and most intense rivalry is with Panathinaikos, another Athens-based club. This rivalry, known as the “Derby of the Eternal Enemies,” is one of the most famous and fiercely contested derbies in European football. They also have a strong rivalry with PAOK.
In Conclusion
The rivalry between PAOK and Olympiacos is one of the fiercest in Greek football, fueled by history, passion, and memorable clashes on the pitch. The head-to-head record tells a story of intense competition, and recent matches at Karaiskakis Stadium have seen PAOK perform surprisingly well.
This rivalry is sure to continue captivating fans for years to come.