Former player of Donetsk “Shakhtar” Serhiy Yashchenko made a prediction for the first match of the Europa League qualification between Turkish “Besiktas” and the “miners”, which will take place today in Istanbul:
Serhiy YashchenkoBoth teams had a rather unsuccessful last season, which is why they have to participate in the Europa League qualification instead of the most prestigious continental tournament. What unites the opponents is that recently serious changes have occurred in both their coaching staff and players. This is why they have something to prove.
Still, although Besiktas’ coach Ole Gunnar Solskjær has more coaching experience than his Donetsk counterpart Arda Turan, I am convinced that in this case, the Turkish specialist has a certain advantage as he is well aware of the strengths and weaknesses of the Istanbul giant. We will see who better executes the directives of their leaders.
Shakhtar needs to be ready that the fans will push “Besiktas” forward from the first minutes, which is why it is important not to concede in the debut. I think that gradually, thanks to better ball control and precise passes, the guests will manage to seize the initiative. The recent friendly matches of “Besiktas” showed that their defense does not seem impenetrable. There is also a lack of balance. I tend to think that “Shakhtar” will not lose. It will be a high-scoring draw, or the “miners” will win — 2:1.
