The UEFA Europa League play-off round delivers an intriguing second-leg clash on August 28, 2025, as Samsunspor host Panathinaikos at the Samsun 19 Mayıs Stadium. The Turks lost 1–2 in Athens last week but showed resilience and quality, suggesting the return leg will be fiercely contested.
Prediction Overview
The recommended betting selection is Both Teams to Score (BTTS – Yes). Samsunspor’s attacking form at home and Panathinaikos’ proven ability to find goals away from Athens combine to make this market highly attractive. With the tie finely balanced, both sides are expected to contribute to the scoresheet.
Samsunspor’s Home Strength and Ambition
Samsunspor may lack a deep European pedigree, but their domestic form has been strong. They have started the Turkish Süper Lig season with two wins out of two, building momentum and confidence. In the first leg, they took the lead before eventually falling 1–2, but their attacking threat was clear. Backed by a passionate home crowd, they will be expected to push forward in search of a turnaround. Forwards like Marius Mouandilmadji and Olivier Ntcham have been influential, and their ability to create danger suggests they can breach the Panathinaikos defense.
Panathinaikos’ European Mission
Panathinaikos enter the second leg with a slender advantage after a late comeback in Athens. Ivan Jovanović’s side endured disappointment in the Champions League qualifiers against Rangers but steadied themselves by edging past Shakhtar Donetsk on penalties in the Europa League. Their 2–1 first-leg victory was their first outright win in European competition this season, and it highlighted their resilience. With Andraž Šporar and Fotis Ioannidis leading the line, Panathinaikos have the firepower to strike on the road, even if their defense has looked leaky at times.
Head-to-Head and Tactical Trends
The first leg confirmed what many expected: an open contest with both sides creating chances. Samsunspor must score at least once to stay alive, while Panathinaikos are unlikely to sit back given their own attacking DNA. Historical indicators, combined with the sides’ recent form, point firmly to BTTS – Yes as the most rational betting angle. A 1–1 or 2–2 draw fits the dynamics, keeping the game tense right until the final whistle.
