PAOK vs Real Betis prediction 22.01.2026 | UEFA Europa League

PAOK’s Europa League campaign to date has been characterised by a potent attacking output but mixed overall results. Four of their first six matches have produced over 2.5 goals, with three of those fixtures surpassing even the 3.5-goal threshold. Their most recent Europa League outing was one such high-scoring encounter, delivering six goals in an entertaining 3-3 draw.

Overall, PAOK have enjoyed a productive spell in Europe, recording two wins and two draws across their last four Europa League matches. Crucially, they welcome Real Betis to the Toumba Stadium unbeaten at home in this season’s competition. Their domestic form has also gathered momentum, with a series of convincing victories in the Greek Super League reinforcing confidence ahead of this fixture.

However, the squad faces personnel challenges. Key players such as goalkeeper Jiří Pavlenka and attackers Kiril Despodov and Luka Ivanušec are noted as unavailable due to injury. Additional injury and illness issues have impacted figures including Greg Taylor, Dejan Lovren, and Georgios Giakoumakis, complicating selection options and potentially affecting defensive cohesion.

Real Betis arrive with a 14-point haul from six matches in the Europa League, sitting in a comfortable position in the competition table and maintaining an unbeaten record in the league phase. Betis have shown a balanced attacking and defensive profile with around 1.97 goals scored per match and a relatively disciplined defence, although away fixtures typically see the game open up with attacking intent. 

Manuel Pellegrini’s men enter this fixture on the back of three consecutive Europa League victories, leaving them just one point behind league leaders Lyon and Midtjylland. Their most recent win came away from home, where they produced a convincing 3-1 victory over GNK Dinamo in Zagreb.

Betis are facing notable unavailability issues themselves: suspended forward Cédric Bakambu and a host of injury absentees including Antony, Héctor Bellerín, Nelson Deossa, Sofyan Amrabat, Junior Firpo, Isco and Juan Hernández present key selection challenges across attack, midfield and defence. This extensive injury list could force tactical adjustments and reliance on squad depth. Additionally, reports indicate uncertainty over the involvement of winger Antony due to recent physical concerns, suggesting Betis may need to manage his minutes carefully.