Our Predictions
Odds favor Shakhtar, and recent struggles to score suggest a low-scoring game, so betting on no goals from both sides seems wise.
The draw odds are decent, and with both teams potentially cancelling each other out, a high-energy, open game with goals is plausible.
Odds reflect the outsider status, but with both teams’ recent defensive lapses, an away goal and an open game aren’t out of the picture.
Welcome to Extratips, where we dive into the upcoming UEFA Europa League clash between Shakhtar Donetsk and Panathinaikos, kicking off on August 14th at 18:00. This match marks round one of the 2025/2026 campaign, with the Ukrainian side hosting the Greeks in what promises to be a tight tussle. Both teams recently met in a draw (0-0), highlighting the defensive stalemates they might be capable of tonight. The odds from bet365 show a clear favorite: Shakhtar at 1.73, compared to Panathinaikos at 4.33, implying the Ukrainians are expected to edge it. The draw is set at 3.50—a nod to how close these teams could be. Interestingly, both teams are riding similar streaks—they’ve failed to score in their last match, and recent form suggests a cautious approach with tactical discipline. Shakhtar boasts a solid home record and more domestic consistency, but Panathinaikos has shown resilience on the road. Key factors could be the injury status of key players and tactical setups, especially considering both sides’ recent goalless encounters. With such a crowded fixture list and tight margins, expect a low-scoring, closely fought affair—perhaps a 1-0 or 1-1 draw. Tactically, this could go either way, but the home advantage and slightly superior form give Shakhtar the edge. Let's unravel some of the bets and scenarios that could play out. Buckle up!