Wolfsberger AC knows its opponent for the 3rd qualifying round of the UEFA Europa League: The Carinthians meet at the start of their European Cup adventure against the Greek representative PAOK Thessaloniki. This was the result of today's draw at the UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland. As the current ÖFB Cup winner, WAC will enter the international competition in the third qualifying round. The first leg will take place on Thursday, August 7, 2025, away, and the return match will follow a week later, on August 14. The exact kick-off times will be fixed by July 25. With the win of the ÖFB Cup in the past season, WAC not only secured the first title in the club's history but also a valuable ticket for the UEFA Europa League qualification. Now, the team of head coach Dietmar Kühbauer will enter the competition in the 3rd qualifying round and face PAOK Thessaloniki, the club of Thomas Murg. Advancing would mean a ticket for the European group stage - either in the Europa League or, in case of a failure in the play-off, in the UEFA Conference League. So said Dominik Baumgartner: 'PAOK is of course a very strong opponent and a difficult draw. The atmosphere in Thessaloniki will certainly be very good. We are looking forward to the duel and will do everything to advance to the next round.' At the beginning of the millennium, the Greeks met with FC Kärnten, a Carinthian club. At that time, the Carinthians suffered a 4-0 defeat in Thessaloniki after a goalless draw in the first leg. WAC now wants to make history and qualify for the group stage. The question is whether they can withstand the strong opponent PAOK Thessaloniki. The answer will be shown in the next few weeks. Other games in the 3rd qualifying round will also be exciting. However, WAC is determined to achieve its goal. The fans hope for a successful start in the Europa League. But the road to success will be difficult. And the team must be prepared for everything. So, the fans are eagerly awaiting the first game against PAOK Thessaloniki.