Over 1,000 passionate PAOK fans are expected to travel to Riga for their team’s crucial UEFA Europa League match against FC RFS on November 27, 2024. Known for their unwavering loyalty and electrifying presence, PAOK supporters are ready to turn the city into a sea of black and white as they rally behind their team in this pivotal clash. Hailing from Thessaloniki, PAOK FC is the pride of Northern Greece, boasting the largest fanbase in the region and the third-largest nationwide. Their influence stretches beyond the borders of Greece, with dedicated supporters among the Greek diaspora in countries like Germany, Australia, and the USA. Recognized by Marca in 2018 as the most followed Greek football team on social media.
The passion of PAOK fans is legendary. Their home ground, Toumba Stadium, is famously dubbed “The Black Hell” for its intense and hostile atmosphere, with Gate 4 housing the club’s most fervent ultras. These supporters are renowned for their loud, coordinated chants and spectacular displays, creating one of the most intimidating atmospheres in European football. Their devotion is immortalized by the club’s decision to retire the No. 12 jersey in honor of their role as the “12th man.” PAOK fans have also built a reputation for traveling in large numbers to support their team on the road. In their recent Europa League fixture against Manchester United at Old Trafford, 4,000 supporters filled the away section, with additional fans scattered across the stadium.
PAOK’s Europa League campaign has drawn substantial crowds this season, with home attendances of 14,340 against FCSB and 16,144 against Viktoria Plzen, while away matches saw massive turnouts, including 50,700 spectators at Galatasaray and 73,174 at Manchester United. This match against RFS is critical for PAOK’s chances of progressing to the knockout stages, and the traveling fans will be instrumental in creating an atmosphere to inspire their team. Currently, a week before the game there are about 1,100 tickets bought in the away section.
PAOK has struggled in their Europa League campaign so far, managing just 1 draw and 3 losses in their first four matches. Meanwhile, RFS has fared slightly better, earning 2 draws and suffering 2 losses. Both teams are still searching for their first win as they prepare to face off in a crucial encounter.
