View from the Opposition: Shakhtar Donetsk

Shakhtar Donetsk visit the Stadio Olimpico for the first leg - the same site as the last meeting between these two sides, as Roma beat the Miners in the Champions League last-16 in 2018.

Paulo Fonseca was in the opposite dugout that night; we spoke to Alex Puzik, deputy editor-in-chief of Football.ua, one of the leading Ukrainian football websites, to get his thoughts on the upcoming contest...

Shakhtar Donetsk have faced Roma six times in their history already: which Roma player impressed you the most in those meetings?

“The second leg of the last-16 of Champions League in Rome in 2018 comes to mind. All Roma players looked great that day. Shakhtar lost 1-0 that night and in the second half Roma practically did not allow opponents to even get close to the goal. It was a good lesson for Paulo Fonseca, who worked at Shakhtar at the time."

What are Shakhtar's main strengths?

“I will not surprise you with my answer: the strengths are the Brazilians and their attacking potential. With the right attitude and motivation, these guys are able to beat any team in the world."

How well known and how popular are Roma in Ukraine?

“Of course, everyone knows what kind of team it is and what great players play there. An ordinary fan is unlikely to name the complete current squad, but at least Henrikh Mkhitaryan and head coach Paulo Fonseca are known to everyone. And Edin Dzeko, of course."

What formation and tactics do you think will be used by Castro on Thursday?

“I don't think there will be any surprises from Castro. The coach will field the strongest side he has available to him. The formation will be the usual 4-2-3-1. I am sure that Shakhtar will play defensively and will hope for counterattacks."

Which is the Shakthar player that Roma should keep an eye on most?

“Marlos and Taison. These guys are not having the best time right now, but in the game with Roma they want to show their true ability."

Which Roma player would Shakthar supporters prefer not to play against on Thursday?

“Dzeko and Jordan Veretout won't play, right? That is definitely good news for the Shakhtar. These are two leaders. You can also happily remove Lorenzo Pellegrini, Leonardo Spinazzola and Borja Mayoral."

What is your prediction for the match?

“2-1, Roma edging it. But everything will ultimately be decided in Kiev."