Former Arsenal and Everton scout Pavel Kucherov, who has lived in the Netherlands for over 30 years, shared his impressions of the first match of the Europa League 1/8 finals between Shakhtar Donetsk and Feyenoord Rotterdam (1-1), which took place yesterday in Warsaw.
"To condemn Shakhtar's game in their difficult situation would be wrong. The team did everything they could. It is clear that it was hard for Shakhtar, they deliberately chose the tactic that if they manage to score with one or two counterattacks, it will be great.
In principle, they did, but not from a counterattack, but from a corner. Rakitskiy scored a fantastic goal with his back. But we failed to keep the winning score, because Feyenoord were stronger in all statistical indicators.
"Shakhtar scored a goal from nothing, but justice prevailed and Feyenoord managed to get back into the game. Very great credit to Arne Slot that Feyenoord play to the end. They believed until the last minute that they could get back. In this match they did not let Shakhtar raise their head, constantly put pressure, after losing the ball they immediately engaged in physical battles.
For me in this match everything was predictable. "Feyenoord is a good team without outstanding individual players. However, the team has a problem in the attacking game, especially on the flanks, where they can't create advantage and sharpen it up. Especially, this was evident in the first half. In the second half they picked up the pace and started playing a lot more dangerously and it became even more difficult for Shakhtar.
I think that Feyenoord are clear favorites for a two-match clash in all respects. Firstly, the team is much more streamlined and skilled. Secondly, Feyenoord are in the middle of the league season, while Shakhtar just started official games. Donetsk club chose defensive tactics in the first match, because the team's level and readiness does not allow to play attacking soccer against Feyenoord.
The only surprise for me was the fact that Shakhtar held on for a long time and Feyenoord could not score at all in the first half without creating any dangerous chances. I think that for Shakhtar 1-1 is a good result before the second game, though it will be very, very tough in the Netherlands.
Everything happens in soccer, like yesterday's goal by Rakitskiy, but Feyenoord should take on Shakhtar. They are stronger as a team, besides, they will play at home, and the fans will drive them forward. I think Feyenoord will decide the issue in regulation time. My prediction is that the Dutch will definitely score three goals, but Shakhtar can respond with a goal. Feyenoord is the clear favorite in the return match. But miracles happen, that's what makes soccer great," Kucherov said.