PSV vs Shakhtar Donetsk Prediction 10 September 2026

The hosts are the clear favorites and should have enough attacking quality to dictate the tempo, while Shakhtar's recent defensive performances suggest that PSV can create plenty of scoring opportunities.

PSV have been in strong attacking form, winning four of their last five matches. They beat Utrecht (6-1), Groningen (5-1) and Excelsior (2-1), while drawing with Sittard (2-2) and defeating AZ Alkmaar (4-0). The Dutch champions have been particularly impressive in front of goal, scoring 19 times across those five matches. Their ability to maintain a high tempo and generate chances makes them a major threat in this matchup.

Shakhtar Donetsk have also enjoyed a positive run, remaining unbeaten in their last five games. They defeated Polissya (2-0), Kharkiv (1-0), Epitsentr (2-0) and Kudrivka (5-1), while drawing with Bursaspor (0-0). However, their recent opponents have generally provided less attacking pressure than PSV are expected to. The Ukrainian side's defensive record has been solid, but this will be a significantly tougher test.

The matchup should produce an open game because PSV are likely to dominate possession and attack with intensity, while Shakhtar have enough pace and technical quality to threaten on the counter. PSV's recent goal-scoring numbers strongly support an entertaining contest, and Shakhtar's attacking ability gives them a realistic chance of contributing to the total. If the visitors can score once, PSV should have the quality to push the game beyond three goals.

The hosts' attacking form, combined with the Champions League setting and Shakhtar's ability to create chances in transition, makes a high-scoring encounter the preferred option.

Over 3 goals at 1.80