Match Info
- Watford v Panathinaikos
- Friendly
- FC Kössen, Austria
- 12.30pm (BST), Sunday July 10
Opposition
During Panathinaikos’ 63rd consecutive season in Super League Greece, the club saw success in the ‘Greek Football Cup’ defeating PAOK in the final, along with a fourth-place finish in the league, which secured them a spot in the Europa Conference League third qualifying round. Assisting with this success was Argentine attacker Sebastián Palacios, who scored 13 goals in all competitions for the club.
Been At Both
Greek goalkeeper Orestis Karnezis started his professional career at Panathinaikos, playing in 53 games between 2007 and 2013. During the 2012/13 season he became a regular for the Greek side, with his admirable performances earning him a spot in the Greece national team where he became part of their 2014 FIFA World Cup squad.
Karnezis joined Watford on loan in the 2017/18 season. During an outing at Stoke City, he pulled off a remarkable save from winger Xherdan Shaqiri's dangerous volley which secured a crucial clean sheet and point in Watford’s survival campaign.
Ones to Watch
Former Real Betis and Malaga left-back Juankar is one to watch ahead of the friendly between Watford and Panathinaikos. His speed and overlapping runs down the left flank make him a threat for the Hornets.
Despite injuries Juankar has played 55 times over the two seasons he has spent at the club, scoring two goals from his defensive position. The creativity he has brought to Panathinaikos’ back line could prove to be difficult for the Watford forwards.
Another one to keep an eye on is Argentine striker Palacios, who was the club’s highest scorer in his first season. During the 2021/22 campaign, he netted 13 times in all competitions, helping to win Panathinaikos’ first cup in eight years. The 30-year-old natural finisher brings a dangerous and agile aspect to the club’s forward line.
