Monaco – Shakhtar Donetsk : Preview & Prediction
AS Monaco finished at the foot of the podium last year in Ligue 1, just behind PSG and LOSC, crowned champion of France. The Principality’s club therefore missed direct qualification for the group stages of the Champions League, and was thus forced to go through preliminary rounds to join them. Monaco first eliminated Sparta Prague in the 3rd qualifying round in order to qualify for these play-offs. The start of the season in the league was not that expected, with a draw against Nantes, then a defeat in Lorient on Friday evening. Monaco will not have to make a mistake in the face of its opponent of the day.
Shakhtar Donetsk is now a regular at the various European Cups, and is well known to football followers. The defending Ukrainian champion took out Belgian club Genk in the third qualifying round for the Champions League, and is making a rather satisfactory start to the championship for the moment, with a third place and a record of 3 wins and 1 loss.
AS Monaco took out Sparta Prague in the third round (wins 0-2 then 3-1).
The club has a record of 2 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss including VAT this season.
Shakhtar Donetsk took out Genk in the 3rd round (wins 1-2 then 2-1).
Shakhtar has a record of 5 wins and 1 loss including VAT this season.
Certainly one of the most beautiful matches of these Champions League play-offs. AS Monaco, at home, are favorites but will have to be wary of this Ukrainian team which is capable of hurting its opponents very badly. Monaco still has the necessary weapons to win this match and take a good option for qualification. Victory for AS Monaco!
Monaco – Shakhtar Donetsk : Betting Tips
Monaco – Win Odds: 1.60
Both teams to score / YES – Odds: 1.70
Over 2.5 Goals – Odds: 1.70
