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The UEFA Champions League group phase continues as Shakhtar Donetsk host Brest at the VELTINS-Arena on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at 17:45 GMT. Brest are aiming to secure a top-eight finish and automatic qualification for the last 16, while Shakhtar Donetsk are fighting to keep their slim hopes of progression alive.

Interesting Fact: Brest could become the first French club to win five matches in their debut Champions League season since Lyon in 2000-01.

Team Analysis

Shakhtar Donetsk

Shakhtar Donetsk have struggled in the Champions League this season, collecting 4 points from six matches. Their 5-1 loss to Bayern Munich in their last match highlighted their defensive vulnerabilities, and they now face an uphill battle to avoid elimination. Domestically, they are also performing poorly, sitting 10 points behind league leaders Dynamo Kyiv in the Ukrainian Premier League.

Current Form:

• Last 5 matches: 2 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses.
• Last match: 5-1 loss to Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

Key Players:

• Oleksandr Zubkov: The midfielder has been a standout performer, scoring two goals in the Champions League.
• Danylo Sikan: The striker has been clinical in front of goal, leading the line with confidence.

Injuries/Suspensions:

• Bartol Franjic (out, loan ended).
• Maycon (out, injury).

Home Form:
Shakhtar Donetsk have been inconsistent at home, with one win and two losses in their three Champions League matches at VELTINS-Arena this season.

Brest

Brest have been in excellent form in the Champions League, collecting 13 points from six matches. Their 1-0 victory over PSV Eindhoven in their last match showcased their defensive solidity, and they remain in contention for automatic qualification. Domestically, they are also performing well, sitting mid-table in Ligue 1.

Current Form:

• Last 5 matches: 4 wins, 1 loss.
• Last match: 1-0 win over PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League.

Key Players:

• Abdallah Sima: The forward has been in fine form, scoring three goals in the Champions League.
• Romain Del Castillo: The midfielder provides creativity and energy in the middle of the park.

Injuries/Suspensions:

• Jordan Amavi (out, injury).
• Massadio Haidara (out, injury).
• Bradley Locko (out, injury).
• Soumaila Coulibaly (out, injury).
• Julien Le Cardinal (out, injury).

Away Form:
Brest have been strong on the road, with two wins and one loss in their three Champions League away matches this season.

Head-to-Head and Past Encounters

This will be the first competitive meeting between Shakhtar Donetsk and Brest, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the fixture.

Prediction

Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: Shakhtar Donetsk 1-2 Brest

Brest’s superior form and defensive solidity make them favorites for this clash. However, Shakhtar Donetsk’s home advantage and attacking firepower could see them cause problems for the French side. Expect a closely contested match, but Brest’s experience and tactical discipline should see them edge it.

Betting Tips

1. Both Teams to Score: Yes
   • Both teams have shown attacking prowess in recent matches.
2. Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over
   • This fixture has a history of producing goals.
3. Anytime Goalscorer: Abdallah Sima
   • The in-form forward is likely to find the net.

Hot Stat: Brest have conceded just six goals in their six Champions League matches this season, highlighting their defensive strength.

Possible Lineups

Shakhtar Donetsk (4-2-3-1):
Riznyk; Konoplya, Bondar, Matviienko, Pedro Henrique; Marlon Gomes, Bondarenko, Sudakov; Zubkov, Sikan, Kevin.

Brest (4-3-3):
Bizot; Lala, Chardonnet, Ndiaye, Fernandes; Del Castillo, Camara, Magnetti, Doumbia; Ajorque, Sima.

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