Monaco vs. Shakhtar Donetsk: Preview and betting tips

Monaco or Shakhtar Donetsk, one of these two teams will play the Champions League group stage this year. The opening game on Tuesday, played in the small principality, may suggest a lot.

Monaco made it through to the last preliminary round via Sparta Prague. They were better in both matches and deservedly advanced after a 5-1 win. But now it faces a much tougher opponent.

Shakhtar, with all due respect to Sparta, had a better opponent. Belgian Genk scored in both games, but lost both 1:2.

Monaco have a number of big names in their squad. On the top, national team players Wissam Ben Yedder and Kevin Volland are operating, while the experienced Cesc Fabregas or the young Aurélien Tchouaméni are in the midfield.

In the third preliminary round, Tete shone with good performances, scoring once and assisting once from the centre of midfield. The French club also has to watch out for winger Manor Solomon or striker Lassina Traoré.

Shakhtar could take advantage of Monaco’s poor start to the league season and being under pressure from the fans. It is no wonder, as they have only one point after two rounds.

On the other hand, the visitors are not doing so well either, keeping only one clean sheet in their last four games.

Given the unsettled defences of both teams, I think both teams will score.