Shakhtar Donetsk vs. Besiktas Tips and Odds – 31/07/2025

• Fixture: Shakhtar Donetsk vs Besiktas (UEFA Europa League 2nd Qualifying Round, 2nd Leg)
• Date: Thursday, 31 July 2025
• Venue: Stadion Miejski im. Henryka Reymana, Krakow, Poland

Match Preview

The UEFA Europa League second qualifying round brings a high-stakes encounter between Shakhtar Donetsk and Besiktas, with the second leg set for neutral ground in Krakow due to ongoing conditions in Ukraine. Shakhtar travels with a 4-2 advantage from the first leg in Istanbul, a match that showcased both attacking flair and moments of defensive vulnerability from both sides. That result puts the Ukrainians in pole position, but as European nights have often shown, no tie is truly settled after just 90 minutes.

Shakhtar’s preparation for this clash has been strong; they demolished Ilves 6-0 in the first qualifying round and held firm for a goalless draw in Finland to seal progression. Their recent friendlies included a 1-0 away win over Triglav and a friendly loss against Slovacko, indicating some squad rotation and tactical experiments. Offensively, Shakhtar have looked sharp, with players like Alisson, Kevin, and Pedrinho all contributing goals in recent competitive and non-competitive fixtures. However, the Ukrainian side must guard against complacency, having allowed two goals in Istanbul and knowing the visitors will throw everything forward.

Besiktas, meanwhile, are coming off a turbulent season. Despite finishing the Turkish Super League strongly, their defense let them down in the first leg, conceding four times at home—a rare occurrence for the Black Eagles. The first leg saw Tammy Abraham and Joao Mario find the net, giving Besiktas hope, but their inability to contain Shakhtar’s transition play was evident. Their recent domestic results include a mixture of wins and draws, showing an attack capable of troubling most defenses, but the Istanbul giants know overturning a two-goal deficit away from home is a daunting prospect.

Squad-wise, Shakhtar have avoided fresh injury or suspension issues coming into this key game. Besiktas, on the other hand, are sweating over the fitness of Mustafa Erhan Hekimoğlu, who suffered a thigh muscle injury during pre-season. While some long-term absentees remain out, the core of their attacking talent is expected to be available for this decisive clash.

Key Players to Watch

• Shakhtar Donetsk:
  • Kevin (dynamic midfielder, standout with 3 goals and 2 assists in 2 recent outings)
  • Alisson (scored in both ties vs Ilves and the first leg against Besiktas)
  • Pedrinho (creative force with both goals and assists from midfield)
• Besiktas:
  • Tammy Abraham (proven scorer, crucial for any comeback hopes)
  • Joao Mario (scored in the first leg, responsible for tempo in midfield)
  • Gedson Fernandes (engine in the center, key in defensive transitions)

Prediction

Given Shakhtar’s clear attacking momentum, two-goal aggregate advantage, and overall form in recent matches, they are favored to progress. Besiktas have the squad quality to make it tense, particularly if they score early, but their porous defense—exposed repeatedly in Istanbul—could again be their downfall. Expect goals from both sides, but Shakhtar’s offensive edge should see them through.

Predicted Score: Shakhtar Donetsk 2-2 Besiktas (Shakhtar advances 6-4 on aggregate)

Betting Markets & Odds

Odds are illustrative and may change. Always check with your bookmaker for latest pricing.

Get ready for an entertaining, high-tempo European tie at one of Poland’s most storied stadiums, where both clubs are sure to give their all for a place in the next round.