On Thursday, April 9, Shakhtar Donetsk delivered a commanding performance against Dutch side AZ Alkmaar in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League quarter-final tie. Playing at their designated temporary home arena, the Ukrainian giants overcame a challenging start to secure a resounding 3-0 victory, taking a massive step toward the semi-finals.
The match began under a cloud of concern following a frightening incident involving Shakhtar’s Isaque Silva. Following a heavy collision resulting from a foul, the Brazilian midfielder lost consciousness for several anxious moments. The medical team reacted instantly, rushing onto the pitch to provide vital assistance. Remarkably, Silva regained consciousness and bravely attempted to continue playing. However, prioritizing the player’s long-term health and safety, the Shakhtar coaching staff made the prudent decision to withdraw him from the game. Artem Bondarenko was brought on as his replacement in the 24th minute, ensuring no unnecessary risks were taken.
The remainder of the first half unfolded as a tense, tactical chess match. Both teams adopted a cautious approach, focusing heavily on maintaining defensive solidity rather than committing to attacking ventures. Consequently, the sides went into the halftime break deadlocked at 0-0, leaving the game entirely in the balance.
Coming out of the dressing room, the dynamics of the match shifted dramatically. The second half saw a sudden injection of pace and intensity. Shakhtar signaled their intent early on when Pedrinho unleashed a powerful strike that rattled the crossbar. At the other end, AZ Alkmaar’s Patati attempted to catch Shakhtar goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk off guard, but the Ukrainian shot-stopper remained resolute and dealt with the threat effectively.
As the game progressed, Shakhtar began to dictate the tempo, gradually wearing down the Dutch defense. The crucial breakthrough finally arrived in the 72nd minute. Pedrinho found space and unleashed a spectacular effort that flew straight into the top corner, leaving the AZ goalkeeper with no chance.
This opening goal proved to be the catalyst for a late Shakhtar onslaught. AZ Alkmaar struggled to recover, and the Ukrainian side ruthlessly capitalized on their momentum. In the 81st minute, Alisson doubled the lead with a clinical finish. Just two minutes later, he struck again, securing his brace and putting the game firmly to bed. The rapid succession of goals effectively dismantled the Dutch opposition.
Match Details:
Shakhtar Donetsk 3 – 0 AZ Alkmaar
Goals: Pedrinho (72′), Alisson (81′, 83′)
Shakhtar Lineup: Riznyk – Vinicius, Bondar, Matviyenko, Pedro Henrique – Ocheretko, Pedrinho (Nazarina, 89′), Isaque (Bondarenko, 24′), Alisson (Konoplia, 89′), Newerton (Eginaldo, 74′) – Kauan Elias (Traore, 74′).
AZ Alkmaar Lineup: Zoet – Goes, Penetra, van Dijk – Maikuma (Dijkstra, 46′), Smit, Mijnans, de Wit – Patati (Oufkir, 73′), Parrott (Meerdink, 74′), Sadiq (Dal, 55′).