UEFA Champions League
Shakhtar Donetsk vs Lyon Preview
Both Shakhtar and Lyon have their sights on qualifying out of Group F into the Round of 16. However, Lyon have a slight edge and an opportunity to take first place should Manchester City lay an egg at home. All the French side needs to do is avoid a defeat and they will progress as runners up.
Meanwhile, the Ukrainian side have a more difficult task. All that matters for them is a win at home. Any other result will land them in Europa League for the remainder of the season.
Team News
Shakhtar boss Paulo Fonseca has serious doubts over Fernando who is injured. He will likely be a game time decision of the Portuguese manager.
Meanwhile, Lyon’s match was postponed along with PSG this past weekend due to security fears. The French sides come to this match with rather fresh legs. However, the list of injured players for Lyon is large. So far Tanguy NDombele may be a game time decision for boss Bruno Génésio.
Predicted Lineups
Shakhtar: Pyatov; Matviyenko, Khocholava, Kryvtsov, Ismaily; Alan Patrick, Stepanenko; Maycon, Taison, Marlos; Junior Moraes.
Lyon: Lopes; Denayer, Marcelo, Marcal; Rafael, Ndombele, Aouar, Mendy; Fekir, Dembele, Depay.
Prediction
Top spot is still up for grabs for the Ligue 1 side. Manchester City would have to secure that spot when they face Hoffenheim this afternoon. However, Shakhtar are playing in Kyiv instead of the OSC Metalist stadium. The change of venue came due to a political unrest in the county and will perhaps play against the home team. With fresh legs and needing just a draw, the French side has a more legitimate chance at advancing than the Ukrainian side giving the surprise.
Shakhtar Donetsk 1 – 3 Lyon
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Photo credit to Lyon via Twitter
