Maccabi’s captain Dor Peretz will lead his side at the Toumba stadium for EUROPA League phase MD1 away to PAOK Thessaloniki. The 30-year-old will be making his 80th appearance for Maccabi in European competitions and is four appearances short of equaling the club record which is currently held by former legendary captain Sheran Yeini.
Peretz who scored 2 goals in the Playoff against Dynamo Kyiv and added five more goals in the league, spoke about the preparations to face PAOK and the atmosphere he and his teammates should expect at their famous stadium. “Most of the players have already watched PAOK, and the atmosphere here is amazing. The Greek fans have great passion for football. We are expecting a tough match against a very talented opponent, but if we come prepared and stick to our game plan and principles, it could be a wonderful night of football.”
On the encounter with PAOK, the experienced midfielder added: “I think both teams are very good, and the match can go either way,” Peretz said. “Of course, we want it to go in our favor. I think we are coming in very well-prepared, knowing the strengths and weaknesses of our opponent. If we show what we have been working on for some time, it can go our way, but PAOK are very talented and strong, experienced, with excellent players. I think it will be a good match.”
On the experience of Maccabi’s players in Europe, he said: “These players have gone through stages in their careers. In Europe, you face opponents you may meet only once, and they know how to adapt quickly to the required style of play, that’s what will help us. Their squad also has very talented and experienced players, like Taison, who achieved a lot with Shakhtar. I hope our experience will help us.”
Finally, Peretz was asked how he feels as Maccabi’s captain in Europe at these times, and he replied: “I am very proud. In these days I am proud that we are representing our country and the only club representing Israel in Europe right now. We also want to be proud of our achievements, and that begins tomorrow. We will move forward step by step.”
