In a crucial Champions League group stage fixture, Shakhtar Donetsk visits the Volkspark Stadium to face Barcelona. The match is scheduled for Tuesday, November 7 at 6:45 PM local time, as part of the fourth round of Group H in the 2023-2024 edition of the tournament. The outcome could determine whether Barcelona advances to the knockout rounds, a feat they narrowly missed in the previous campaign.
Shakhtar Donetsk will travel to meet Barcelona with a clear objective clear in their sights. The Ukrainian side sits in third place in the group standings, three points off the top, while Barcelona lead the group with nine points and are chasing a spot in the round of 16. This encounter follows a tight win for Barcelona in the previous meeting, where goals from Ferran Torres and Fermín López gave Spain a 2-1 victory over Shakhtar as Heoriy Sudakov found the net for the visitors. These persistent rivals are set for a renewed battle as the group phase progresses. [Citation: Goal Spain]
The storyline surrounding the match
The clash features a prominent draw between two attacking teams, with tactical battles expected from both sides. Barcelona, under the leadership of Xavi Hernandez, aims to seal advancement with a strong showing away from home. Shakhtar, coached by Marino Pušić, looks to climb the standings and keep pressure on the teams at the summit. The match serves not only as a test of current form but also as a measure of depth for each squad as they maneuver through a demanding European calendar. [Citation: Goal Spain]
The lineup for Barcelona has been confirmed. Goalkeepers and defenders line up with Ter Stegen in goal, supported by Cancelo, Araujo, Christensen, and Alonso in the back line. The midfield features Romeu and Gavi, flanked by Gunogan. Up front, the attack is spearheaded by Raphinha, Lewandowski, and Ferran Torres. This setup highlights Barcelona’s balance of experience and youthful energy as they pursue a decisive result. [Citation: Official match notes]
Shakhtar’s starting XI has yet to be finalized for publication, with anticipation building around their tactical approach and personnel choices for the match. [Citation: Goal Spain]
The significance of the result extends beyond the match itself. A favorable outcome could secure Barcelona’s place in the knockout rounds, while a setback would intensify the final group fixture. The teams are aware of the stakes and will approach the clash with a blend of ambition and calculated risk to maximize every scoring opportunity. [Citation: Goal Spain]
What does Barcelona need to clinch a place in the round of 16 for the 2023/24 Champions League Does the team control its destiny with one match remaining It is a question that football fans and analysts are weighing as the action unfolds. [Citation: Goal Spain]
Minute by minute of Shakhtar Donetsk vs Barcelona
Preview and live updates are provided by Goal, offering a detailed account of the progression of play, key chances, and tactical shifts as the match unfolds. [Citation: Goal]
Source: Goal