Conference League 2025-2026: AZ Alkmaar-Shakhtar Donetsk, the likely lineups
At 6:45 p.m., AZ Alkmaar takes the field in front of their fans with the goal of performing a real miracle, overturning the heavy 0-3 loss they suffered in the first leg against Shakhtar Donetsk. At stake is a place in the Conference League semifinals against the winner of the challenge between Crystal Palace and Fiorentina. AZ comes to this fixture after a 3-0 win over Heerenveen in the league, a very important signal of reaction after the first leg match against the Ukrainians. However, in front of them will be a very solid Shakhtar Donetsk, willing to continue the path to chase the title in the third European competition in order of importance; in fact, Arda Turan’s team has won all the European away matches played so far this season, showing great maturity in a context that is not easy, having to face home matches away from Ukraine as well. The match may seem closed at the start, but the home factor and the desire of the red and white players to bounce back after the first leg match may be decisive in finding the comeback.
To attempt the comeback feat, AZ Alkmaar coach Echteld will rely on a solid team up front. Between the posts Zoet is confirmed, while the weight of the attack will be all on the shoulders of Parrott, supported by the quality of Patati and Sadiq. In the midfield, Mijnans and De Wit will be tasked with dictating the tempo and trying to insert themselves in the box to help in the comeback.
On the opposite front, Arda Turan’s Shakhtar Donetsk will respond with a more balanced set-up in defense to surprise the opponents on the counterattack. Riznyk will lead the backline, while the midfield will be very dense and crowded with five men in the middle, with Newerton and Alisson ready to act on the outside lanes to trigger the only offensive terminal Kaua Elias.
AZ Alkmaar-Shakhtar Donetsk, likely lineups
AZ Alkmaar (3-4-3): Zoet; Goes, Penetra, Van Duijl; Maikuma, Smit, Mijnans, De Wit; Patati, Parrott, Sadiq. All. Echteld.
Shakhtar Donetsk (4-5-1): Riznyk; Tobias, Bondar, Matviienko, Henrique; Alisson, Pedrinho, Ocheretko, Silva, Newerton; Kaua Elias. All. Arda Turan.
