Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Europa League Qualifying match.
The star-studded clash between Shakhtar Donetsk and Panathinaikos failed to deliver goals last week (0:0). On neutral ground in Kraków, both sides are again expected to show each other plenty of respect — neither will want to surrender possession, but the focus will be on defensive solidity.
Shakhtar Donetsk
Even before the trip to Athens, where Shakhtar managed just five shots on target despite 61% possession, they had played two matches that went under 2.5 goals. The team cruised past Ilves (6:0 on aggregate) and Beşiktaş (6:2) in earlier Europa League qualifying rounds, but against Panathinaikos they have been far more cautious in transition — not least due to the absences of Lassina Traoré, Kevin Santos and Danylo Udod.
Panathinaikos
Although Panathinaikos are the underdogs in this tie given the squad values (€94.9m compared to the Ukrainians’ €166m), they looked threatening at home. They needed just 39% possession to produce seven shots on target, though none of them were truly dangerous. Rui Vitória gained valuable experience in low-scoring encounters against Rangers (1:3 on aggregate) in Champions League qualifying, so the Greeks are expected to play with maximum concentration in Kraków.
Shakhtar Donetsk vs Panathinaikos Prediction
Despite the number of top players on both sides, neither Shakhtar Donetsk nor Panathinaikos are likely to throw caution to the wind in the return leg. Another match under 2.5 goals looks the most probable outcome.
