The biggest clash of this rounds Europa League qualifiers sees Shakhtar Donetsk take on Turkish side Beşiktaş. These are two teams you would expect to see in the Champions League but are now fighting for a spot to enter the third round of the Europa league qualifiers. The first leg ended in a 4-2 loss for Beşiktaş at home. On paper both teams had almost the same amount of possession, the Turkish side in fact had more 1.67 xG to Shakhtars 1.59 xG. Shakhtar’s 3 Brazilian musketeers put on a show with Santana and Eguinaldo getting a goal and assist each while Kevin scored a brace. Ole Gunnar Solskjær will be ruing his team’s performance given they now have to travel to Poland being 2 goals down.
Team News
Shakhtar have a fully fit squad for this tie and given the last result, Arda Turan is unlikely to make any changes. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is out facing a MCL injury. Joao Mário could be in line for a start if Ole Gunnar Solskjær decides to go in for a more attacking setup. Joao will most likely be replacing new signing Orkun Kökcü who had a very underwhelming debut for the Turkish outfit.
Head-to-Head
The current head to head record for the teams is – 3 Wins for Shakhtar Donetsk , 2 draws between them. Beşiktaş have never won against Shakhtar.
Where the game will be decided
Beşiktaş are winless in their last 3 matches whereas Shakhtar are unbeaten in their last 5. Arda Turan could play with a defensive setup and utilise the pace of Kevin and Santana as they have a 2 goal buffer and need not take any risks. Ole Gunnar Solskjær will need Tammy Abraham to give his A game with Rafa Silva and Milot Rashica providing him the service he needs on the wings.
Prediction
Shakhtar will most likely advance as they need to avoid losing by 3 goals. Shakhtar will take advantage of that and will pounce on the counter. Beşiktaş will see their journey to the Europa league end.
Shakhtar 2-1 Beşiktaş
Kick-Off Time
The action starts on Thu, Jul 31, 2025, 18:00 GMT at the Stadion Miejski im. Henryka Reymana.
