Bookmakers’ Predictions for Shakhtar’s Opening Match in European Cups: A New Chapter in the Fight for European Glory
Amid preparations for the new football season, Ukrainian club Shakhtar Donetsk is already gearing up for its first official match in European competitions. This encounter marks a significant milestone for the team, as the outcome will determine their further participation in continental tournaments. On Thursday, July 10, the Ukrainian team will travel to Slovenia to face the Finnish club Ilves in the first qualifying round of the Europa League. The match is scheduled to take place at the Stožice Stadium in Ljubljana, the Slovenian capital, with kickoff set for 9:00 PM Kyiv time. Fans can follow the online live broadcast on ZN.UA, allowing spectators to stay updated with real-time developments. According to bookmaker analysts, Shakhtar is considered the favorite in this match. The odds for their victory are 1.25, indicating strong confidence in the Ukrainian team's success. A draw is valued at 2.95, while the odds for an Ilves victory are high at 11.00. These figures reflect the bookmakers' trust in Shakhtar’s potential and strength. Notably, this game will be the first official test for the club’s new head coach, Arda Turan, who took over the team this summer following the departure of Marino Pusic. For Donetsk, this confrontation carries additional historical significance, as a win would enable them to advance through the qualifying rounds and continue their pursuit of European trophies. It is also worth mentioning that in Donetsk, the stadium’s condition was recently showcased — a site that once hosted the UEFA Cup final, marking an important milestone for the club’s history. Consequently, this match represents not just a qualifier, but a symbol of Shakhtar’s return to the European stage, a platform that has long been associated with the club’s honor and reputation in Ukrainian football.