The Conference League gives Shakhtar Donetsk an ideal opportunity to strengthen their position in the play-off zone. Hamrun Spartans are still clinging to their mathematical chances, but the difference in quality between the sides and in their seasonal trajectories is obvious. They are fourth in the overall standings (9 points), maintaining a steady pace in European competitions and looking confident away from home.
Hamrun Spartans
Hamrun Spartans picked up their first points in the competition only in the previous round, beating Lincoln Red Imps 3:1. Before that they had suffered three defeats in a row without any real chances: 0:1 against Jagiellonia Bialystok and Lausanne-Sport, and 0:3 against Samsunspor. It is important to note that their opponents were taking many shots (on average 14-18 per match), creating an excess of chances, and the hosts’ defence regularly collapsed in the space between the lines. Home advantage helps them little: the team usually sit deep but can withstand pressure only for about one half. Their tempo is low and their transitions are weak – ideal conditions for a team of Shakhtar Donetsk’s level.
Shakhtar Donetsk
Shakhtar Donetsk are on a seven-match unbeaten run. In the Conference League they have three wins in four matches, and they have won both away games. They score consistently: three goals against Aberdeen, two against Breidablik Kópavogur and two against Shamrock Rovers. In terms of expected goals, the team regularly reach 1.8-2.4 xG even against more organised opponents.
Hamrun Spartans vs Shakhtar Donetsk Prediction
There is no need to look for complex scenarios here. Shakhtar Donetsk are superior to their opponents in every aspect: pace, individual quality, possession, pressing and finishing. The hosts will inevitably leave space between the lines, and the visitors know how to punish such mistakes by creating a series of chances. They need points, so their motivation is at its maximum.
