Bologna-Shakhtar Donetsk: Pre-Match Statistical Preview for Champions League 2024/25

Bolognese Rise to the Occasion

The 2023/24 season marks a historic achievement for Bologna, with the Serie A club qualifying for the UEFA Champions League for the first time. Their journey to the pinnacle of European football has been remarkable, and they will be eager to make their mark on the biggest stage of club competition.

Bologna's success stems from their impressive attacking prowess. They have a formidable forward line led by Marko Arnautovic, who has been in scintillating form this season. With 20 goals and 10 assists in all competitions, the Austrian veteran is a constant threat to opposing defenses.

Their midfield is equally impressive, boasting the creativity of Nicolas Dominguez and the tenacity of Jerdy Schouten. Dominguez has a keen eye for a pass and can unlock defenses with his incisive through balls, while Schouten provides a solid defensive base and contributes with occasional goals.

Shakhtar's Resurgence

After a turbulent period, Shakhtar Donetsk is back among Europe's elite. The Ukrainian giants have rebuilt their squad following the departure of several key players and are now ready to challenge for major honors once again.

Shakhtar's attacking threat is spearheaded by the Brazilian duo of Pedrinho and Mykhaylo Mudryk. Pedrinho is a skillful winger with an eye for goal, while Mudryk is a pacy and direct attacker who can cause problems with his dribbling ability.

Their defense is anchored by the experienced Serhiy Kryvtsov, who has captained the team with distinction. Alongside him, Valeriy Bondar and Lucas Taylor form a solid partnership, providing a good balance between physicality and technical ability.

Head-to-Head Record

This will be the first-ever meeting between Bologna and Shakhtar Donetsk in competitive action. Both teams will be keen to make a positive impression and lay down a marker for the rest of the competition.

Key Players to Watch

Bologna

• Marko Arnautovic (forward)
• Nicolas Dominguez (midfielder)
• Jerdy Schouten (midfielder)

Shakhtar Donetsk

• Pedrinho (forward)
• Mykhaylo Mudryk (forward)
• Serhiy Kryvtsov (defender)

Predicted Lineups

Bologna (4-3-3)

• Skorupski (GK)
• Posch (RB)
• Soumaoro (CB)
• Lucumí (CB)
• Cambiaso (LB)
• Schouten (CM)
• Dominguez (CM)
• Ferguson (CM)
• Orsolini (RW)
• Arnautovic (ST)
• Zirkzee (LW)

Shakhtar Donetsk (4-1-4-1)

• Trubin (GK)
• Konoplya (RB)
• Bondar (CB)
• Kryvtsov (CB)
• Taylor (LB)
• Sudakov (DM)
• Pedrinho (RW)
• Bondarenko (CM)
• Mudryk (LW)
• Traore (AM)
• Sikan (ST)

Prediction

This match is evenly poised, with both teams having their strengths and weaknesses.

Bologna will look to exploit Shakhtar's relative lack of experience at this level, while Shakhtar will rely on their attacking quality to make the difference.

Ultimately, Bologna's home advantage may prove to be the deciding factor, and they could edge a narrow victory.

Conclusion

The clash between Bologna and Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League is set to be a fascinating encounter. Both teams will be determined to make a positive start to their campaign, and the outcome could have a significant impact on their hopes of reaching the knockout stages.