Sheriff Tiraspol vs. Shakhtar Donetsk: Preview and betting tips

Shakhtar Donetsk will enter the new Champions League season with a match at Sheriff Tiraspol. The Moldovan champions appear to be the clear underdog of the group, but let’s not forget that they have made it through all four preliminary rounds among the top 32 teams.

Sheriff became the first Moldovan team to qualify for the group stage of the Champions League, while also being the first in history to make it through all four preliminary rounds. They are in fourth place in the league, but have three games to play, which if they win, they will be in first place again.

Shakhtar had to knock out Genk and Monaco on the way to the most watched league in the world, especially the princely side gave the Ukrainian vice-champion a lot of trouble. Shakhtar are second in the league, three points behind Dynamo Kiev.

Sheriff’s promotion was shot by a couple of players. Luvannor Henrique and Adama Traoré scored four goals each, while Frank Castañe had three assists. Shakhtar must not give this trio any space.

Lassin Traoré is the standout in the away team, the young striker has scored five times in the league. It is also worth mentioning midfielder Alan Patrick or winger Manor Salomon, who tormented the Czech national team’s defence during the last edition of the Nations League.

Shakhtar rely on a goal-scoring attack, scoring two or more goals in three of their last four games.

Sheriff is not worried, however, as they hold a five-game streak with a clean sheet. You don’t see that very often.

Given Shakhtar’s Champions League experience, I think they will win the game.