On July 17, 2025, Shakhtar Donetsk from Ukraine secured their place in the next phase of the Europa League by drawing 0-0 with Ilves from Finland at Tammela Stadion in Tampere. The match, valid for the return leg of the first qualifying round, solidified the advantage built by the Ukrainians in a 6-0 thrashing in the first leg, played in Ljubljana, Slovenia. Despite the goalless scoreline, Shakhtar dominated the game, while Ilves, focused on defense, failed to overturn the aggregate score. The live broadcast by Lance! on YouTube attracted thousands of viewers, highlighting the match’s significance. This qualification sets Shakhtar up against Besiktas from Turkey in the next round.
The match was marked by Shakhtar’s offensive intensity, even with a rotated squad, creating several goal-scoring opportunities. However, Ilves’ solid defense prevailed, keeping the score at zero. The game also showcased the contributions of Brazilian players like Pedrinho and Eguinaldo, who were among the most active on the pitch.
- Key moments of the match:
- Eguinaldo created dangerous chances early on, but lacked precision in finishing.
- In the second half, Shakhtar pressed, but the Finnish defense blocked key plays.
- Late tactical substitutions maintained the pace, but the scoreline remained unchanged.
The match reflects Shakhtar’s strength in European competitions, despite logistical challenges, as the team has not played at their home stadium, Donbas Arena, since 2022 due to the conflict in Ukraine.
Ukrainian dominance on the pitch
Shakhtar Donetsk took to the field with a clear strategy: maintain possession and press Ilves from the start. Under coach Arda Turan, the team opted for a rotated lineup, resting some starters after the first-leg rout. Still, their technical superiority was evident. Within the first ten minutes, the Ukrainians created two clear chances, with Eguinaldo crossing for Pedrinho, whose shot was saved by goalkeeper Otso Virtanen.
The Ukrainian side controlled possession, holding about 65% in the first half, according to UEFA data. Their constant pressure forced Ilves to retreat, adopting a defensive stance with a three-man backline. Despite their dominance, Shakhtar’s lack of precision in finishing prevented them from scoring, a pattern that persisted throughout the game.
⚒️ «Шахтар» 🆚 «Бешикташ» 🦅 у Лізі Європи! 🧡
— ⚒FC SHAKHTAR DONETSK (@FCShakhtar) July 17, 2025
🇺🇦 Команда Арди Турана в другому раунді кваліфікації зустрінеться з клубом зі Стамбула 🇹🇷
😍 ЦЕ БУДЕ 🔥🔥🔥
📆 24 липня 📍 Стамбул
📆 31 липня 📍 Краків#Shakhtar #UEL #БешикташШахтар #ШахтарБешикташ #Türkiye pic.twitter.com/q8uZhFLsMW
Ilves’ resilience
Ilves, coached by Joonas Rantanen, showed defensive organization despite the pressure. The Finnish team, competing in the Veikkausliiga, Finland’s top division with a spring-to-fall schedule, entered the match in mid-season form. With 9 wins, 2 draws, and 4 losses in 15 league matches, Ilves arrived with confidence, particularly due to their prolific attack, which had scored 33 goals in the domestic league.
Against Shakhtar, however, Ilves prioritized defense. Their 3-4-3 formation was adjusted to counter Ukrainian attacks, with goalkeeper Otso Virtanen making at least three crucial saves. Players like Aapo Mäenpää and Tatu Miettunen were pivotal in defense, blocking shots and dangerous crosses.
- Ilves’ defensive highlights:
- Otso Virtanen: Made key saves on mid-range shots.
- Tatu Miettunen: Won aerial duels and blocked ground plays.
- Aapo Mäenpää: Led the defensive line with precise interceptions.
Brazilians in action
Shakhtar’s Brazilian players were central to their attacking efforts. Eguinaldo, formerly of Vasco, showcased speed and skill on the wings, creating chances from the outset. Pedrinho, another standout, sought goals through individual plays but was thwarted by the opposing defense. Newerton, who came on in the second half, also posed a threat, particularly in a move at the 68th minute when his shot was blocked by the defense.
The presence of Brazilians in Shakhtar’s squad underscores the club’s tradition of relying on South American talent. In addition to those mentioned, players like Marlon Gomes and Kauã Elias, who also featured, exemplify the club’s investment in young Brazilian prospects.
Second half without score changes
The second half followed a similar pattern. Shakhtar maintained dominance, with well-orchestrated plays through the midfield, led by Artem Bondarenko and later Heorhii Sudakov, who came off the bench. At the 48th minute, Eguinaldo made a rapid run, but his cross to Lassina Traoré resulted in a shot off target.
Midway through the second half, the 3,000 spectators at Tammela Stadion saw Ilves attempt counterattacks, but to no avail. Substitutions like Oiva Jukkola and Joona Veteli gave the Finnish side some energy, but their lack of creativity in attack limited their opportunities.
Refereeing and discipline
The match was officiated by Norwegian referee Mohammad Usman Aslam, assisted by Jorgen Ronning Valstadve and Alf Olav Rossland. The VAR, led by Kristoffer Hagenes, recorded no controversial incidents. Two yellow cards were issued: one to Shakhtar’s Vinícius Tobias at the 40th minute for a tactical foul, and another to Ilves’ Oiva Jukkola at the 70th minute for a harsh challenge.
Both teams displayed discipline, allowing the game to flow without significant interruptions. The refereeing was praised for its firm and impartial conduct.
Upcoming challenges
With qualification secured, Shakhtar Donetsk now prepares to face Besiktas from Turkey in the second qualifying round of the Europa League. The matchup promises to be more competitive, given the Turkish club’s pedigree in European competitions. The first leg is scheduled for July 24, 2025, with the venue yet to be confirmed.
For Ilves, the elimination marks the end of their Europa League campaign. The team now shifts focus to the Veikkausliiga, where they hold third place and aim for a historic title. Their next match is against league leaders HJK, a crucial clash for their season ambitions.
Shakhtar’s Europa League history
Shakhtar Donetsk boasts a strong record in European competitions. Winners of the UEFA Cup in 2009, the club also reached the Europa League semifinals in 2020. In recent years, logistical challenges due to the conflict in Ukraine have forced the team to play at neutral venues, such as Stadion Stožice in Ljubljana, where they secured the 6-0 first-leg win over Ilves.
The first-leg rout featured standout performances from Alisson Santana, who scored twice, alongside Kauã Elias, Kevin, Pedrinho, and Newerton, all Brazilians. The result showcased Shakhtar’s technical superiority, even away from home.
Ilves’ standing in Finland
In the Veikkausliiga, Ilves has impressed with their consistency. With 33 goals in 15 matches, they boast the league’s best attack, led by striker Roope Riski with 7 goals. Despite their Europa League exit, their defensive performance against Shakhtar could boost their confidence for the rest of the season, particularly in away games, where they remain unbeaten in their last four matches.
Broadcast and engagement
The live broadcast of the match on Lance!’s YouTube channel was a milestone for the outlet, which is expanding its multimedia presence. The coverage included real-time commentary and audience interaction, drawing fans of international football and Shakhtar supporters, particularly due to the Brazilian contingent. This move highlights the growing trend of news portals investing in multimedia content to engage urban readers and decision-makers.
Match numbers
- Possession: Shakhtar 65%, Ilves 35%.
- Shots on goal: Shakhtar 12 (4 on target), Ilves 3 (0 on target).
- Fouls committed: Shakhtar 8, Ilves 10.
- Corners: Shakhtar 7, Ilves 2.
- Attendance: Approximately 3,000 spectators at Tammela Stadion.
Shakhtar’s preparation
Before the match, Shakhtar held a training camp in Brdo, Slovenia, where they played friendlies against Gorica (1-0 win) and Slovácko (1-1 draw). Under Arda Turan’s guidance, the preparation focused on integrating young players and maintaining competitive rhythm, despite no official matches since May 2025.
Squad and absences
Shakhtar was without Dmytro Kryskiv and Diego Arroyo due to injuries, but their squad depth ensured consistent performance. Ilves reported no absences but made tactical changes in the second half to try balancing the game.
