In a pivotal match for both teams, Greece is set to face Kazakhstan in the Euro 2024 playoff Path C semi-finals.
The clash, scheduled for March 21, 2024, at the iconic OPAP Arena, promises high stakes and intense football action.
The winner will progress to the final, facing either Georgia or Luxembourg, with a spot in Euro 2024 Group F at stake.
This article delves into predictions, team news, and possible lineups, offering an in-depth preview of this exhilarating encounter.
Road to Euro 2024
Greece
Greece, once the conquerors of Europe in 2004, are on the brink of marking their return to the European Championships, having missed the last two editions.
Their journey in the Euro 2024 qualifying Group B saw them finishing third, behind giants France and the Netherlands, but ahead of the Republic of Ireland and Gibraltar.
Notably, Greece secured a commendable 2-2 draw against France, showcasing their potential to challenge the best.
With an impressive track record at home, losing only two of their last 21 games, Greece's prowess on their turf cannot be underestimated.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan, on the other hand, eyes a historic first-ever major tournament appearance.
Despite a commendable performance in Euro 2024 qualifying Group H, finishing fourth with 18 points, Kazakhstan's aspirations for direct qualification were dashed.
However, their journey to the playoffs has been marked by resilience and notable victories, including a remarkable win against Denmark.
With seven wins in their last 10 matches across all competitions, Kazakhstan's form is not to be overlooked.
Key Players and Predictions
Greece
Greece's squad is buoyed by the return of key players from suspension and injury. Petros Mantalos and Dimitrios Kourbelis are back in contention, and Liverpool's Kostas Tsimikas is expected to make a significant impact.
Vangelis Pavlidis, the joint-top scorer in the 2023-24 Eredivisie season, will be a critical figure in Greece's attack.
Kazakhstan
For Kazakhstan, the suspension of Nuraly Alip poses a challenge in defence, but the return of their leading scorer, Bakhtiyar Zaynutdinov, adds firepower to their lineup.
Zaynutdinov's goal-scoring prowess will be vital for Kazakhstan's aspirations.
Prediction
While Kazakhstan has shown they can compete with the best, Greece's solid performance at home and European experience give them the edge in this crucial playoff match.
Scoreline Prediction: Greece 2-1 Kazakhstan
FAQs
When is the Greece vs Kazakhstan match? March 21, 2024, at 7.45 pm UK time.
Where is the match being played? OPAP Arena, Greece.
Who will the winner face in the final? The winner will face either Georgia or Luxembourg.
What's at stake? A spot in Euro 2024 Group F, featuring Portugal, Turkey, and the Czech Republic.
Has Kazakhstan qualified for a major tournament before? No, this could be Kazakhstan's first-ever major tournament appearance.
Greece 
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