Shakhtar Donetsk vs Panathinaikos: Champions League Qualifying Prediction (14.08.2025)

On Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 17:00 UTC, in Kraków, Poland, as part of the second leg of the UEFA Europa League qualification semi-finals, Shakhtar Donetsk will host Panathinaikos.

Bookmakers consider the nominal hosts as favorites. The odds for a win in regular time are 1.87 versus 4.20, while the odds to advance to the next round are 1.40 versus 2.95. However, the intrigue in this matchup remains, as the first meeting was highly competitive. Let’s review the current form of both teams and give our prediction for the game.

Shakhtar Donetsk

The Miners finished only third in the Ukrainian league. However, it’s worth noting that in the second half of the season, the team looked much better and also won the national cup. During the summer transfer window, the club made several signings, and the Brazilian players—on whom the club traditionally relies—fitted in perfectly. Under the guidance of new head coach Arda Turan, Shakhtar began pressing much more actively and looked sharper overall.
In the second qualifying round, the Miners proved far stronger than Beşiktaş, comfortably defeating the Turkish side 6–2 on aggregate.

Panathinaikos

The Clovers played in the Champions League qualifiers in the previous round. The draw was particularly unfavorable for the Greek side, as they were paired with Rangers. They lost 0–2 away and failed to stage a comeback at home, finishing 0–0.
In the Europa League, they were matched against Shakhtar Donetsk—one of the toughest possible opponents. Backed by their home crowd, Panathinaikos looked decent, posing more threat on counterattacks. However, overall control of the game belonged to the opposition, and the away leg will be even tougher.

Stats & Head-to-Head

The teams met for the first time last week. The game ended 0–0. Shakhtar dominated possession (61%), but lost in total shots (10–12, with 5–7 on target).

Prediction

In the Shakhtar Donetsk vs Panathinaikos match, the prediction favors the nominal hosts. The visitors will again rely on defense and quick counterattacks, while the hosts will opt for ball control and constant pressing. Considering Shakhtar’s attacking potential and the difference in individual quality, they have the better chance of winning this duel. Recommended bet: Shakhtar Donetsk to win — odds 1.87.