Udinese goalkeeper Samir Handanovic believes his side can get a result in Greece to take them past PAOK Salonika in the last 32 of the UEFA Europa League.

Udinese 0-0 PAOK Salonika

Udinese were held to a goalless draw by PAOK in the first leg of their tie in Italy on Thursday.

Injured captain Antonio Di Natale was missing from the game because of injury and it proved to be the difference as his deputy Antonio Floro Flores failed to find the back of the net despite the home side creating plenty of chances for him.

Francesco Guidolin's men now face a tricky second leg but Handanovic thinks it is possible to get qualification in Thessaloniki.

"We can do it," he told the club's website.

"PAOK will have to dare and push forward, in front of their home spectators. They will leave room and we'll have to take advantage of these situations."

The Udinese shot stopper also downplayed the importance of home field advantage and the vocal support of the Greek fans.

"Matches are won on the pitch, not on stands," Handanovic said.

"I've already faced PAOK in Thessaloniki once, in a friendly match. I know what to expect, but I'm optimistic. The good part starts now."

Di Natale is Udinese's top scorer in Serie A with 17 goals.