Panathinaikos FC from Greece will be the next opponent for the Viktorians on their Europa League journey. The first match will be played in Athens, with the return leg taking place at home at the Doosan Arena.

Viktoria came through the league phase of the Europa League as the only team without a single defeat. Moreover, they boast the best defence in the competition. Now another huge challenge lies ahead. In the Europa League play-offs, we will face a very familiar opponent – Panathinaikos FC.

We already met this side in the league phase a few weeks ago, with the match at the Olympic Stadium ending goalless. The Viktorians will return to Athens on Thursday, 19 February, with the team advancing to the Round of 16 to be decided a week later (Thursday, 26 February) at our home ground, the Doosan Arena.

“It could be a small advantage for us. We have to prepare perfectly for the first match, bring back a good result and then, together with our fans, do everything we can to secure qualification,” says midfielder Tomáš Ladra.

“We know the opponent well and they know us. But we want to be 100 percent ready and I’m looking forward to this clash,” adds assistant coach Marek Bakoš.

Kick-off times for both matches will be confirmed by UEFA. “Of course, we are also preparing ticketing information for our fans,” said club spokesperson Václav Hanzlík.