Anderlecht vs PAOK prediction 13.08.2026 | UEFA Europa League

Anderlecht have made a solid start to their European campaign but have struggled to produce consistent attacking numbers. They drew 1-1 away to Hammarby before eliminating the Swedish side on penalties, then secured a 1-0 victory against PAOK. 

Their domestic campaign began on Sunday with a hard-fought 2-1 win over newly promoted La Louvière, although Anderlecht were given a helping hand by the visitors' sending-off in the 59th minute.

The first-leg victory was particularly valuable because Anderlecht managed to keep PAOK scoreless in Thessaloniki. Their defensive organisation will again be crucial, especially because PAOK are likely to commit more players forward in Brussels. 

Their recent competitive results have generally been low-scoring: Anderlecht's last four official matches have produced only seven goals in total. That trend could encourage them to prioritise defensive stability rather than take unnecessary risks with a one-goal aggregate lead.

Anderlecht have a couple of injury concerns, particularly Stroeykens and Belkheir, but no major suspension-related absences are currently expected.

PAOK will be disappointed to trail after the first leg, particularly after an impressive start to their European campaign. Alessio Lisci's side had previously defeated Dynamo Kyiv 3-2 and 2-0 to progress from the second qualifying round with a convincing 5-2 aggregate score. 

PAOK's early European form therefore remains encouraging despite the setback against Anderlecht. They have scored five goals across their two matches against Dynamo and possess attacking players capable of causing problems if Anderlecht retreat too deeply. 

Baptiste Santamaria, who scored against Dynamo Kyiv in the previous round, is among the additions expected to provide greater experience and balance in midfield.