PAOK boss Lisci: Dynamo Kyiv more used to heat, but we're ready

PAOK head coach Alessio Lisci shared his thoughts ahead of the first leg of the Europa League second qualifying round against Dynamo Kyiv. The Italian tactician stressed the importance of the fixture for his side, as it marks their first competitive match of the season. “This is a very important game for us, our first official one. We came here to take on the challenge and we are ready for tomorrow,” Lisci said. Lisci also addressed the difference in weather conditions between Ukraine and Greece. He believes playing in hot weather is tougher and acknowledged that Dynamo are more accustomed to such conditions, though he added that PAOK also prefers to play in the heat. Discussing the summer additions to his squad, the PAOK manager noted that the new signings could make his team less predictable, even if opponents still have a good idea of what to expect. “I think the opponent has some idea about us after the friendlies. Maybe that’s an advantage, but PAOK is well known because of its players, so reading our game isn’t that difficult. All the newcomers are ready to play. Aritz is available and we’ll see if he gets selected for this match,” he said. At the end of the press conference, Lisci outlined what he wants to see from his team against the Ukrainian side. “First of all, I want to see a competitive PAOK on the pitch for the full 90 minutes, a team that makes the fans happy watching this match. A team they will love to watch,” he was quoted as saying by SDNA. The first match is scheduled for July 23 at 20:00 Kyiv time.