Shakhtar’s Quest for European Glory Lives On as They Face Palace in the Semi-Final Showdown

Since 2014, Ukraine’s leading football club of the 21st century has been forced into exile. The Russian annexation of Crimea, along with escalating conflict in Eastern Ukraine and a full-scale invasion eight years later, has transformed Shakhtar into a nomadic entity, with a 12-year journey that has stripped it of its core essence.

This tale is not a new one; however, the club is poised to pen another remarkable chapter of triumph against the odds. It all begins on Thursday, as they face Premier League side Crystal Palace for a coveted spot in the UEFA Conference League final.

As has become customary for Shakhtar, they will host their ‘home match’ away from home. The Synerise Arena, the home ground of Wisla Krakow, will serve as the venue, and the CEO anticipates a turnout of 26,000 Ukrainian supporters. Fans from across Europe will gather to back a club that signifies resilience, liberty, and determination in the face of adversity.

During a virtual media round-table on Monday, Palkin underscored the significance of playing in front of fellow Ukrainians, saying: “Almost 90% of our supporters are Ukrainian, and I’m certain they will come from more than just Poland.”

“For those who have relocated abroad, attending the match serves as a vital connection to our homeland, a means of experiencing the game. For our fans who cannot physically be present, the emotional connection is critical.”

The usual sight of Shakhtar competing away from home has desensitised the footballing world to the immense challenges the team has faced just to keep going. This season alone, they have played 45 matches across various competitions, starting with a 6-0 triumph against Finnish side Ilves in Ljubljana on July 10 during the Europa League qualifying rounds.

An 18-hour journey

Krakow has served as their base for this Conference League campaign, where they have played eight matches, with Palace being their ninth opponent in Poland this season.

While the familiarity of one venue aids consistency, the travel from Lviv—where they contest their league games—to Krakow has its own hurdles. This was starkly illustrated during their clash with Lech Poznan in the knockout phases.

Palkin noted: “I asked the President of Lech, ‘How long did it take you to travel to our venue in Krakow?’ He replied, ’45 minutes’. The distance we covered was 18 hours, 18 hours.”

“Upon arrival for our home match in Krakow after such a long journey, it’s clear that mentally and physically, our opponents may be at an advantage. Regardless, we must strive to achieve results. We have to demonstrate that we can compete.”

Also on the media call was Darijo Srna, a Shakhtar legend and current director of football, who played a key role in securing the UEFA Cup in 2009 when they defeated Werder Bremen 2-1 in the final.

With a deep emotional connection to the club, Srna is dedicated to ensuring Shakhtar’s survival during their time away from home. Earlier this year, he took part in the decision to relocate the academy to his home country, facilitating player development away from the chaos, and he believes the entire nation will rally behind Shakhtar this Thursday evening.

When asked if the club had received support from Ukraine’s president and national figurehead, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Srna replied: “I may not hear directly from Zelenskyy, but I do hear from those around him.”

“Just imagine the implications for Ukraine, for President Zelenskyy, for the fans, and for our fellow clubs.”

“In recent years, we have achieved the highest coefficient for our league, and naturally, they support us. If we make it to the final, I hope to see President Zelenskyy in attendance.”

‘Ukrainian football is resilient’

Reaching the final of a European tournament, all the while cognisant of the ongoing conflict, would be an extraordinary accomplishment for a club that, in Palkin’s words, has faced devastating losses.

“With years of war impacting Ukraine, the news we receive is overwhelmingly negative, about 95% of the time.”

“People are under immense emotional pressure. Our progression to the semi-final brings a glimmer of positive emotion, a reminder that we are alive and capable of competing at this elite level. This is vital, as it instills hope in our people that Ukrainians can achieve something significant.”

But first, they must overcome Crystal Palace, a South London side regarded as favourites for this competition and likely contenders for the trophy in Leipzig come May.

Srna urges his squad to embody the same tenacity that has propelled them this far over two legs.

“While we may lack experience, our spirit is undeniable. We will battle until the final whistle. Of course, we respect Crystal Palace; they triumphed in the FA Cup last year and boast talented players such as (Jean-Philippe) Mateta and (Ismaila) Sarr.

“They are exceptional, quick, and strong, yet we must also respect ourselves. To me, we have a 50/50 chance.”

The return of Brazilian players

Over the years, Shakhtar has built a reputation for attracting promising young talent from Brazil, nurturing them before selling them at a significant profit.

Stars such as Fernandinho, Willian, Fred, and Douglas Costa have emerged through the ranks before seeking opportunities with bigger clubs. However, this recruitment strategy halted post the invasion four years ago, causing a mass departure among athletes.

Now, however, the trend is re-emerging, with 14 Brazilian players on the roster who are making a difference. Eguinaldo leads the league in scoring with seven goals, while 20-year-old Alisson scored twice to help secure a victory against AZ in the Conference League quarter-finals.

“We’ve established a strong rapport with the Brazilian players,” Palkin remarked. “Coming to Shakhtar represents a platform for growth, an opportunity to play in European competitions, and a stepping stone to the top leagues.”

“They recognise what we offer, and they believe in our vision. During negotiations, we aren’t marketing mere comfort; everyone is acutely aware of the reality of war.”

“I think they see this as a necessary phase between Shakhtar and elite clubs.”

The reintegration of Brazilian talent signals a reconnection with Shakhtar’s roots. A triumph in the Conference League would echo the glorious days of Srna and their UEFA Cup success 17 years ago.

While the club eagerly anticipates the day it can return to the Donbas Arena, amidst the shadows cast since 2014, a flicker of optimism persists for the future.