OFI: In Bucharest for a valuable European result

Another important European challenge awaits OFI, who face Hapoel Beer Sheva tonight (5/11, 22:00, Magenta Sport 5) in Bucharest, for the Europa League Group Stage.

The Cretans traveled to the Romanian capital aiming for a result that will strengthen their chances of qualification. The match will be played on neutral ground, which to some extent limits the advantage of the Israeli team.

OFI has proven that it can compete at a high level. They started their European journey with a victory over Hoffenheim, and then suffered two narrow defeats. They lost in France to Rennes with a goal in the 90th minute and subsequently put in a good performance against Bayer Leverkusen, without gaining any points.

Two crucial games for qualification

The match against Hapoel Beer Sheva is one of the most important in OFI's European campaign. The Cretans know that they have two games ahead of them in which they can legitimately claim points.

After tonight's match, the home game against Lech Poznan follows, on November 26 at Pankritio. The results in these two games may prove decisive for the team's position in the Group Stage.

Christos Kontis' team comes from an important 1-0 away win over Panaitolikos and wants to transfer its positive momentum to Europe. The Greek coach has called for intensity, concentration and proper management throughout the match.

Christos Kontis' plan

Kontis is expected to maintain the 3-4-3 formation. Lillo has the lead for the position under the posts, with Poungouras, Nikolaou and Krismannic forming the trio of central defenders.

Dickmann and Athanasiou are expected to play on the two flanks, while Bouchalakis and Androutsos are the most likely for the midfield. The attacking trio is expected to be composed of Fountas, Aitor and Nous.

OFI is called to be effective in its chances and stable defensively, in order to return from Bucharest with a result that will keep them strong in the battle for qualification.