Shakhtar Donetsk, the sole representative of Ukraine in the Champions League, will start in the group round of this tournament - in the first match, Patrick van Leeuwen's side will play Porto. Former Shakhtar striker Viktor Grachev spoke about the Pitmen's prospects in this match.
Viktor Grachev- Viktor Oleksandrovych, it is Shakhtar's turn to defend the country's honour on the international stage. What are your expectations?
- It is very difficult to compare the last season with the current one. Shakhtar have a very serious opponent: "Porto is a regular participant in the group rounds of the Champions League. In the new Portuguese league draw, they have won four games in five matches.
In general, Ukrainian teams have a hard time playing Portuguese teams. But it's not even about Porto, it's about Shakhtar's readiness for matches of this level.
And the first match should largely answer this question, as the current level of our league is not comparable to the level of the Champions League. In addition, with the squad that took to the field in the UPL match against Obolon, it will be difficult to count on anything serious in the Champions League.
- Shakhtar are not winning the league as confidently as they did last season. In your opinion, why is that?
- There is no single reason. Yes, Shakhtar looked very strong last season. No one doubted that the Pitmen would become champions.
Now, again, it is difficult to give an unambiguous assessment, as there are injuries, some players missed the preparation for the season. I believe that Patrick van Leeuwen has no specifics about the main squad. Let's see if the coaching staff has enough experience and skill to get out of this situation.
To be honest, I'm looking forward to Shakhtar's clash with Porto with some fear. Although I also had fears about the team's successful performance before the start of the last Champions League, the Shakhtar Donetsk team honourably got out of the situation by finishing third in the company of Real Madrid, Leipzig and Celtic, which allowed them to play in the Europa League.
- Try to predict what place Shakhtar can expect to take now?
- The situation here is that the Orange and Blacks can qualify for the Champions League play-offs, or they can even take the last fourth place. That's my prediction (smiles).
When there are three giants in a group, there is a chance of underestimating the opponents. And now the situation is such that Barcelona and Porto are the favourites, while Shakhtar and Antwerp are the mid-table.
However, everyone is well aware that it is impossible to play without tasks, so the Pitmen need to try to cling to points in every match, this is the only way to count on the European spring.
- Then what is your prediction for the match between Shakhtar and Porto?
- 1:1. I don't know what to expect from Shakhtar, nor do I know what to expect from Porto. One thing is certain: van Leeuwen's team will have to play a very difficult match.
But this is their Champions League debut, so the motivation of our young players will be incredible. Perhaps this will help us start the tournament with a positive result.
Yaroslav Piatnytskyi
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