FC Shakhtar Donetsk and Bologna FC 1909 Set to Clash in UEFA Champions League Qualifying Round
A Battle for European Supremacy
FC Shakhtar Donetsk, the Ukrainian Premier League champions, will face off against Bologna FC 1909, the Serie A side, in the UEFA Champions League qualifying round. The first leg of the tie will be played at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara in Bologna on Tuesday, August 10th, with the return leg taking place at the NSK Olimpiyskiy Stadium in Kyiv on Tuesday, August 24th.
Shakhtar Donetsk will be looking to reach the Champions League group stage for the first time since the 2019-20 season. The Miners have a wealth of experience in the competition, having reached the semi-finals in 2011.
Bologna, on the other hand, will be making their first appearance in the Champions League. The Rossoblu finished 13th in Serie A last season, but they will be hoping to make a splash in Europe.
Key Players to Watch
Shakhtar Donetsk will be relying on the likes of Mykhaylo Mudryk, Tete, and Lassina Traore to provide the attacking threat. Mudryk, in particular, has been in impressive form this season, scoring 5 goals in 7 league appearances.
Bologna will be looking to Marko Arnautovic, Riccardo Orsolini, and Musa Barrow to lead the line. Arnautovic is a proven goalscorer at the international level, while Orsolini and Barrow are both capable of creating and scoring goals.
Tactical Battle
Shakhtar Donetsk are likely to adopt a possession-based approach, with a focus on quick passing and movement. The Miners will also be looking to exploit the space in behind Bologna's defense.
Bologna, on the other hand, are likely to be more cautious in their approach. The Rossoblu will be looking to soak up pressure and hit Shakhtar Donetsk on the counterattack.
Prediction
This is a tough match to call, but Shakhtar Donetsk will be the slight favorites. The Miners have more experience in the Champions League and they have a better squad on paper.
However, Bologna are a dangerous team on their day and they will be looking to make a statement in their first appearance in the Champions League.
Additional Information
- The match will be broadcast live on CBS Sports Network in the United States.
- Tickets for the match are available on the Bologna FC 1909 website.
- The UEFA Champions League is the most prestigious club competition in Europe.
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