Besiktas will be hoping to spark a comeback in this second leg meeting in the second round of Europa League qualifying after falling to a  4-2 defeat at home against Shakhtar in the first leg.

🟠 Shakhtar In The Driving Seat

Shakhtar beat IIves 6-0 over two legs in the first round of qualifying to set up this tie with Besiktas, and will be optimistic of their chances of securing Europa League qualification after their first leg victory. Shakhtar have featured in the Champions League in each of the last eight seasons, so they have serious European pedigree compared to the majority of sides in the qualification process. 

Shakhtar’s main strength is their attacking ability, with the Ukrainian side boasting a Brazilian flair which took centre stage in the first leg. Kevin netted a brace from the left wing while Santana provided a goal and an assist on the other flank. These two could be really dangerous in this game with the space that Besiktas are set to leave at the back as they chase an avenue back into this tie.

⚫ Besiktas Struggling So Far

Besiktas have been having a pretty torrid pre-season so far. Friendly results aren’t always important, but to have won none of their three pre-season games and then lose in the first leg of this Europa League qualifying tie, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer must be a tad concerned. 

Besiktas weren’t second best in the first leg, it was a pretty even game as we can tell from the shot split (12-11) but they may be punished for not making the most of their home advantage which is one of the biggest weapons in their arsenal and incredibly important in the context of these knockout qualifying ties. Very rarely is a side able to overcome a two-goal deficit when they are the away side in the second leg.

📊 Shakhtar v Beskitas H2H

Prior to the first leg meeting between the sides, Besiktas have only ever played against Shakhtar in friendly matches. The most recent of these games was in July 2024 and saw Shakhtar run out 1-0 winners. 

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