Match preview

Shakhtar head into the semi-finals in strong and composed form, having suffered just one defeat in their last thirteen matches — a narrow loss to Lech in a second leg that didn’t affect their progression. Domestically, they recently secured a 3-1 win over Kudrivka, while in Europe they impressed by beating AZ 5-2 on aggregate in the Conference League.

Their biggest strength lies in experience at this level and their ability to stay organized even without true home support. Shakhtar rely on controlled possession, quick passing, and structured pressing, though they can sometimes allow opponents dangerous spells — something that could be exposed against a fast, transition-oriented English side.

Crystal Palace, meanwhile, have taken a less straightforward path to the semi-finals, but that has only sharpened their edge. While not always consistent, the London side have shown they can rise to the occasion, with their elimination of Fiorentina standing out as proof of their resilience in knockout football.

In the Premier League, Palace recently lost 1-3 to Liverpool, again highlighting their inconsistency. However, in Europe they’ve been more pragmatic — comfortable sitting deep, using width, and striking quickly on the counter. Players like Ismaïla Sarr could be particularly dangerous against Shakhtar’s defense in these situations.

Probable lineups

Shakhtar: Riznyk, Matviyenko, Bondar, Pedrinho, Tobias, Isake, Nazaryna, Ocheretko, Elias, Santana, Nevertón

Crystal Palace: Henderson, Richards, Lacroix, Kanwo, Wharton, Kamada, Muñoz, Mitchell, Sarr, Pino, Strand-Larsen

Match facts and head-to-head

Shakhtar have lost just once in their last 13 matches

Crystal Palace knocked out Fiorentina in the previous round

4 of the last 5 matches for both teams have seen at least 3 goals

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