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The Cyprotes have been playing above expectations in the qualifiers, but Olympiakos are likely to pose a much bigger threat for the visitors than their previous rivals.
The Thrylos did well to sign Rafinha, Yann M’Vila, Jose Cholevas and several other experienced players in the summer transfer window, and it is no wonder they are seen as favourites to win the first leg. The Greeks are a real force to be reckoned with at home, and even though there will be no spectators at Georgios Karaiskakis, we are tempted to put money on the hosts. When two teams met in July Olympiakos won.
Olympiakos ran out 3-0 winners when they faced Omonia Nicosia in a pre-season friendly in July and they can register another comprehensive win over the Cypriots in the Champions League playoff.
The winner of this tie will play in Europe’s elite competition next season and the Greeks go into the match well-prepared, having won four of their last five competitive fixtures.
Their spirits should be high after following their Greek Cup triumph with a 3-0 opening-day success over Asteras Tripolis and their squad looks stronger for the arrivals of Yann M’Vila, Ahmed ******, Jose Holebas and Pepe.
Nicosia have had a solid but unspectacular start to the Cypriot First Division, winning two and drawing two of their first four matches and they were taken to penalties in their last qualifying match by Red Star Belgrade so they are worth opposing.