Lyon to disappoint against Shakhtar Donetsk
Oleksandr Osipov / Shutterstock.com
Shakhtar Donetsk host Lyon on matchday 6 in the Champions League. It is a must-win game for Shakhtar to qualify for the knockout stage. For Lyon, it is a mustn’t lose game as the French team is just two points above their rivals in Group F.
The two clubs drew 2-2 on matchday 2 in France in a thrilling affair. Played behind closed doors, Lyon battled back from two goals down to score twice in the final 20 minutes.
Lyon are the only undefeated team in Group F, yet they have failed to win any of their last four games. Lyon defeated Manchester City 2-1 on matchday 1, but have since drawn twice against Hoffenheim and once apiece with Shakhtar and Manchester City. They have underachieved as great performances against Manchester City have been undone by sub-par outings against the rest of the group. Lyon could still top Group F with a win and Hoffenheim win over Manchester City. It could happen as Hoffenheim are still fighting for third and a Europa League spot.
Shakhtar are surprisingly still alive for knockout stage qualification. The Ukrainians will go hammer and tongs for the win. The game will take place in Kiev due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Leading sportsbooks have brilliant odds on this fixture. Shakhtar are favoured by leading bookies, but Lyon are fantastically priced with some sportsbooks offering 2/1 odds. Shakhtar and Lyon have played only once in their history. That game came earlier this season in the Champions league.
Lyon have scored 11 goals in Group F, but they have conceded goals freely. Ten goals have been allowed as Lyon have failed to keep things tight at the back. All five Lyon Champions League Group F games have seen over 2.5 goals scored. Shakhtar have also seen goals fly in with all five games finishing with over 2.5 goals. Although both sides will want to keep it tight and close, neither have proven they can keep out goals. The fixture should see over 2.5 goals scored and both teams will find the back of the net.
Lyon have disappointed against Group F teams other than Manchester City. Their last three games in all competitions have ended without a win. Bruno Genesio has plenty of talent, yet defence continues to be the team’s biggest problem. Lyon have conceded 30 goals combined in the Champions league and France’s Ligue 1.
Shakhtar will feel confident on Wednesday night. Lyon are struggling and have failed to string wins together. Despite Shakhtar having fewer attacking options, they will get the valuable three points that they need winning against Lyon. The game will see over 2.5 goals and Shakhtar will move into the round of 16.
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