PSV have found their rhythm, but Shakhtar are dangerous on the counter-attack: PSV vs Shakhtar prediction
The opening-round Champions League match between PSV and Shakhtar will take place on 10 September at the Philips Stadion. The Dutch club head into the fixture after four consecutive victories, while the Donetsk side have won four of their opening five Ukrainian Premier League matches.
PSV: strong form and nine goals in their last two matches
Peter Bosz's side have made a confident start to the Eredivisie, winning four of their opening five rounds. Their latest matches have been particularly impressive, with PSV thrashing Utrecht 6-1 before beating Ajax 3-1 away from home.
However, the hosts' recent European record is less convincing. PSV have lost four of their last five home Champions League matches, conceding 17 goals during that run.
Shakhtar: confident start under Arda Turan
The Donetsk side have also started the new season well, winning four of their five Premier League matches. In the latest round, Shakhtar fell behind against Karpaty but managed to complete a comeback and win 2-1.
The team have also looked fairly consistent in European competition recently, suffering only two defeats in their last eight group or league-phase matches. In addition, Shakhtar have lost only twice in their last seven meetings with Dutch clubs.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- PSV have won their last four competitive matches.
- Shakhtar have won four of their opening five league matches.
- In November 2024, PSV beat Shakhtar 3-2, scoring all three goals after the 87th minute.
Home advantage could tip the match in PSV's favour: PSV vs Shakhtar prediction
Both teams have started the season well and are capable of creating chances in a fast-paced game. Shakhtar will surely look to exploit space on the counter-attack, especially given the hosts' less-than-perfect defensive record in Europe.
However, PSV currently look more powerful going forward and should control the initiative for much of the match at home. In what could be an evenly contested game, the Dutch side's attacking potential may ultimately prove decisive.
