Today, Shakhtar Donetsk will play the first match of the Europa League play-offs against French side Marseille. Renowned coach Myron Markevych shared his expectations of the match.
"I think the chances are 50-50. Shakhtar's squad is not weaker than the French team. Marseille has the advantage of having the league ongoing, so perhaps they are in slightly better shape. On the other hand, Shakhtar have a great desire to win and many players want to prove themselves. The Pitmen also have the coaching charade at Marseille on their side, as frequent coaching changes never benefit a team.
"Shakhtar must be hungry and play their attacking game, not giving Marseille a single chance. That's the attitude you need to have. Counting on the opponent's mistakes is the way to go, you have to make them make mistakes.
Shakhtar definitely need Stepanenko in the match against Marseille. A lot depends on him. "Shakhtar with him and without him are two different teams. There must be a high-level team play, no one needs to pull the blanket over themselves, one or two players will not solve anything. Shakhtar looked good in the Champions League, so let's hope that the Donetsk team will perform at the same level against Marseille," Markevich said.