On Thursday evening, Feyenoord hosts Shakhtar Donetsk in a game that will decide which of the two teams will make it to the last eight of the Europa League. The first leg between the two teams in Warsaw ended in a 1-1 draw.
Feyenoord form guideThe Dutch giants have been in excellent form this season. Arne Slot’s team is 19 games unbeaten in all competitions, having recorded six wins in their last seven matches. The only game they didn’t win in the seven-game run was the first leg of this tie. Last time out, Feyenoord strengthened their bid for the Eredivisie title by recording a 2-1 win over Volendam.
Despite their excellent campaign, the home side's recent record in the Europa League is unconvincing. Although they have suffered just one defeat in six games, they have also recorded just two wins in their last ten games in the competition.
Shakhtar Donetsk form guideLike their opponents, Shakhtar goes into this clash in good form, as they have won five of their last seven games in all competitions, including suffering just one defeat in the run. The Ukrainian team has also been prolific in front of goal of late, scoring at least two goals in five of their last seven matches. A 3-0 win at Kryvbas last time out in the Ukrainian Premier League boosted their title hopes.
Like their hosts, Shakhtar has an underwhelming recent record in the Europa League, as they have won just one of their previous five games in 90 minutes.
Latest team newsDue to various injuries, Feyenoord could be without goalkeeper Justin Bijlow, Patrik Walemark and Quinten Timber. Shakhtar has no suspensions or reported injuries ahead of this big game.
What am I backing?This could be a fantastic watch between two in-form teams. They are hard to separate, but I do believe the game will produce goals, so I am backing over 2.5 goals scored.
