Besiktas J.K. vs FC Shakhtar Donetsk Prediction 24 July 2025
Added on 22 July, 2025
Once considered giants in their respective leagues, Besiktas and Shakhtar Donetsk will meet in a highly anticipated Europa League qualifying clash.
Besiktas have been struggling to regain their former status in recent years, with their fourth-place finish in the 2024/25 Turkish Super Lig a clear reflection of their ongoing issues. Their pre-season has been equally mixed, recording a win over St. Pölten (2:0), a draw with Admira (1:1), and defeats to Wolfsberger (2:3) and Petrzalka (1:2).
Shakhtar’s summer preparations have hardly been more convincing. They edged past Gorica (1:0), drew with Slovacko (1:1), and surprisingly lost to Triglav (0:1), though they did produce a standout 5:0 win against Grosuplje. In European competition, however, they were ruthless in dispatching Ilves in the previous round, with a 6:0 victory at home followed by a goalless draw away.
On paper, both teams appear fairly evenly matched in their current states. However, the home advantage plays firmly in Besiktas' favor, with their experienced support likely to give them an extra edge. In such circumstances, the Turkish side looks well-placed to secure a narrow win in this first leg.
Besiktas to win with 0.0 Asian handicap 1.80