Italian Bologna head coach Vincenzo Italiano told what he expects from today's match between his team and Shakhtar Donetsk in the 1st round of the Champions League main stage.
"Among our opponents in the Champions League there are teams that seem stronger than us on paper. However, we are convinced that we can put any of the teams we face in a difficult position.
But the level of the Champions League is certainly high. Already in the first match we will face an opponent who is much more experienced than us: Shakhtar are used to playing in the Champions League. However, we are determined to show what we are capable of from the very first match.
In general, I have strong emotions before the start of the Champions League. It will be a great journey where we don't want to be a crowd pleaser, but want to compete in every match," Italiano said at the pre-match press conference.