Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League match.
The defeat in the Dutch Klassieker against Ajax (2:3) has not dampened PSV Eindhoven's spirits, as they continue to perform with remarkable proficiency. Shakhtar Donetsk are unlikely to take all three points from Eindhoven, especially given their defensive weaknesses.
PSV Eindhoven
Following a lively draw with Paris Saint-Germain in Paris (1:1), PSV Eindhoven have scored at least two goals in five consecutive matches, winning four of them. In the fourth round of the group stage, they demolished Girona (4:0), dominating in terms of chances (2.04 xG and 25 shots). Despite a series of injuries, with Hirving Lozano, Sergiño Dest, Fodé Fofana, Jerdy Schouten, and Joey Veerman sidelined, the Eindhoven side have effortlessly orchestrated their attacks — over the weekend, they handed Groningen a five-goal thrashing without reply (5:0).
Shakhtar Donetsk
Setbacks against Atalanta (0:3) and Arsenal (0:1) have shown that Shakhtar struggle to claim points against the giants in this campaign, though they are ready to compete against their equals. On the pitch in Gelsenkirchen against Young Boys (2:1), the Donetsk team maintained a one-goal advantage (Georgiy Sudakov contributed 1+1), yet even a Champions League underdog consistently created chances against Shakhtar Donetsk (0.95 xGA and 10 shots conceded).
PSV Eindhoven vs Shakhtar Donetsk Prediction
In Eindhoven, the hosts are poised to comfortably secure the points. Shakhtar Donetsk lack the experience and defensive solidity to contain their competitor.
