Aberdeen can turn 'Black Hell' into red heaven as Dante Polvara wants to keep his Euro specialist reputation

Aberdeen will walk out into a black hell on Thursday but Dante Polvara reckons they can turn it into a red heaven and claim their first European win of the season.

The Dons prepare to take on 100 percent Group G leaders PAOK, who are looking to book their place in the knockout stages by dismantling the Dons at their Toumba Stadium. Barry Robson’s side will walk out into one of the most hostile stadiums in Greek football but Polvara reckons that red-hot atmosphere can bring out the best in their team.

Polvara said: “This will probably be different to anything I have played in before. The boys are looking forward to it. I’m sure it will be exciting and loud, but that’s what you play football for. You want to be involved in these kinds of nights. The atmospheres in Scotland can be quite toxic at times too, although I think this will be different. As players we want to be part of it and we’re looking forward to it.

Aberdeen also gave PAOK something of a scare after they went 2-0 up at Pittodrie before they eventually lost out 3-2. That gives the Dons the confidence they can cause the Greeks major issues. “It is good for our confidence knowing that we can score goals against this team,” the midfielder insisted.

“We know how dangerous they are as well. We have separated bits and pieces from the last game and playing away from home Playing away from home we will probably change slightly on how the game goes. We are looking forward to the game and pushing for a win.”

PAOK coach Razvan Lucescu was critical of Aberdeen defender Nicky Devlin for blowing kisses at his bench after the Dons had netted their second. Polvara doesn’t think it will add anything extra to this evening’s showdown with the points the priority for both sides.