With Athletic Bilbao struggling mightily in Group H, Tuesday’s meeting between BATE Boris and Shakhtar Donetsk takes on increased importance with the two side currently battling for one of the group’s automatic spot in the next round.
BATE Borisov vs. Shakhtar Donetsk, 2014 UEFA Champions League: Team news and game preview
BATE and Shakhtar meet in a key match in the battle to advance from Group H.
BATE are currently second. one point ahead of the Ukrainian side thanks to their win over Athletic Club. Since their disastrous 6-0 loss against FC Porto on match day one, the Belarusian side have won four matches and drawn two in all competitions, giving them some momentum against
Shakhtar have only managed two draws so far in the competition, and have two points. A win for either team would give them a massive boost in the race to advance, though chances are Group H will go down to the wire, at least for second place.
This is the first meeting between the two clubs.
Key Player: Vitali Rodionov
Rodionov isn’t the biggest striker in the world a 5’10” but his importance to BATE Borisov can’t be underestimated. His high work rate helped BATE win possession and on those occasions they’re able to get it, he’s excellent at holding the ball up to allow his teammates time to join the attack. The more effective Rodionov can be against Shakhtar’s defense, the better chance BATE have of getting a positive result.
Key Matchup: BATE patience vs. Shakhtar attack
There’s no question Shakhtar are the more dynamic attacking team in this match, but so far we’ve not yet see the Ukrainian side look quite as dangerous as many expected in the Champions League. BATE will have home field advantage and plenty of confidence after a run of positive results. The key for BATE will be sticking to their plan, whatever that may be. Shakhtar’s attack will open up chances and if BATE are quick enough to take advantage, they could grab a big win.
BATE Borisov injuries and suspensions
Out: Egor Filipenko (hamstring).
Shakhtar Donestsk injuries and suspensions
Out: Serhiy Kryvtsov (ankle).
Both teams are fairly healthy with just one missing player for each side. Igor Filipenko will miss the match for BATE with a hamstring problem, while Shakhtar’s Serhiy Kryvtsov is sidelined with an injured ankle.
Match Date/Time: Tuesday 9:45 p.m. local, 2:45 p.m. ET
Venue: Borisov Arena. Barysaw, Belarus
TV: DirecTV, FOX Soccer Plus (U.S.), Sky Sports Red Button (U.K.), Sky Sport 1/HD
Online: FOX Soccer 2Go, ESPN3 (U.S.), Sportsnet World Now (Canada), SkyGo (U.K.)
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