Olympiacos vs. Freiburg previews: Team news and predicted lineups
Here is our preview of Thursday's Europa League group stage clash between Olympiacos and Freiburg, including predicted lineups.
After losing their last two Bundesliga games against Stuttgart and Borussia Dortmund by a 2-9 goal difference, Freiburg will be looking to bounce back when they visit Greek giants Olympiacos in their Europa League opener on Thursday night.
It's the second year in a row that the two clubs are in the same Europa League group, with last year's match in Athens resulting in a 3-0 win for Freiburg. The reverse fixture ended in a 1-1 draw.
Freiburg coach Christian Streich, however, believes that the Greek opponents have changed a lot since last year. He points out that Olympiacos come into the game in great form, with last week's 1-1 draw with AEK Athens the only game they haven't won so far this season.
"They are a completely different team from last season. They weren't in the same form as they are now. Now they are extremely organized and very clinical. We know what we're up against. But we're not worried. We're looking forward to playing in the Europa League again," said Streich at his pre-match press conference.
Compared to Saturday's 4-2 loss to Dortmund, Freiburg will be without Michael Gregoritsch due to injury, while Manuel Gulde is suspended. Christian Günter, Benjamin Uphoff, Daniel-Kofi Kyereh and Max Rosenfelder remain out.
Predicted Olympiacos vs. Freiburg lineups:
Olympiacos: Paschalakis - Rodinei, Retsos, Freire, Quini - Camara, Hezze, Podence, Masouras, Fortounis - El Kaabi.
Freiburg: Atubolu - Sildillia, Lienhart, Ginter, Kübler - Eggestein, Höfler - Sallai, Doan, Grifo - Höler.