Shakhtar Donetsk has left AZ facing a considerable challenge ahead of the return leg in Alkmaar, after the Ukrainian team secured a commanding 3-0 victory, featuring a spectacular strike from Pedrinho and a late double from Alisson.
Under the management of Arda Turan, Shakhtar marked their return to European quarterfinals for the first time since 2020, following a heavy 5-0 defeat to Inter in the UEFA Europa League. Meanwhile, AZ made it to the UEFA Conference League quarterfinals for the second time in three years, having triumphed on penalties against Anderlecht in 2023.
A surprising injury halted the match when Shakhtar midfielder Isaque collapsed following a collision with AZ full-back Seiya Maikuma, appearing momentarily unconscious. After receiving treatment, Isaque managed to return but was substituted again after just ten minutes.
The crowd at the Synerise Arena in Krakow, Poland, had to wait until the 44th minute for the first shot on goal, which was easily saved by veteran keeper Jeroen Zoet after a weak attempt from Shakhtar’s Alisson.
The second half came alive, with both teams creating chances through Weslley Patati and Kauã Elias, but neither side was able to break the deadlock.
Just when it seemed neither side could find the net, Shakhtar finally broke through in the 72nd minute. Pedrinho delivered a stunning strike, taking the ball on the bounce and sending it soaring into the top corner, just grazing the crossbar on its way in.
AZ squandered several opportunities late in the game, failing to capitalise on a loose ball from a corner that fell favorably for Alisson, who made no mistake in slotting it home into the bottom corner.
As a result, Shakhtar took a commanding lead when Alisson finished a brilliant team move in the 84th minute, extending their advantage.
With their late flurry of goals, Shakhtar now head to Alkmaar next week with a 3-0 cushion to defend.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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