Giráldez warns of tough PAOK test: 'Different beast' awaits Celta in knockout phase
Celta Vigo boss Claudio Giráldez prepares for a challenging Conference League knockout tie against PAOK, downplaying their earlier group stage victory.
Celta Vigo face a proper European examination as they prepare for their Conference League knockout clash against Greek side PAOK, with manager Claudio Giráldez warning that their previous group stage encounter means absolutely nothing now.
Different challenge ahead
Despite beating PAOK during the group stage, Giráldez is under no illusions about the difficulty of the upcoming two-legged affair. The gaffer’s made it crystal clear that Celta will need to be at their absolute best to progress.
“We’re facing a team that hasn’t lost a single home match in any competition this year,” Giráldez cautioned, highlighting the intimidating atmosphere awaiting his squad in the first leg.
The numbers don’t lie - PAOK’s home form has been nothing short of stellar this campaign. Even Real Betis came unstuck there, suffering a 2-0 defeat, while the Greek side have also picked up impressive away results including a victory at Lille.
Formidable opponents
What makes PAOK particularly dangerous?
- Consistency in personnel - many players have been together for years
- Dangerous wide players and clinical finishers
- Compact team structure that’s difficult to break down
- Outstanding home record - a proper fortress
Giráldez noted that Celta might be the only team to have beaten PAOK this season, but that’ll count for naff all when they meet again in the knockout phase.
Home advantage for second leg
While Celta have the potential advantage of playing the decisive second leg at Balaídos, Giráldez isn’t getting ahead of himself. The gaffer’s keeping his powder dry, stressing the importance of delivering in the away leg first.
“We need to perform well in the first leg to take advantage of playing the return at home,” he explained, showing the sort of pragmatism you’d expect from a bloke who knows his onions in European competition.
For now though, it’s all about La Liga focus for the next couple of weeks before turning their attention to the European tie. If they’re going to advance, Giráldez knows his team will need to be right on the money against an opponent that’s proving to be one of the dark horses of the competition.