Shakhtar Donetsk vs Crystal Palace – Match preview and team news

Shakhtar Donetsk vs Crystal Palace – Match preview and team news Crystal Palace head to Poland tonight for the first leg of their maiden European semi-final. The Eagles face Ukrainian giants Shakhtar Donetsk in a high-stakes Conference League encounter. Oliver Glasner’s side aim to reach the final in Leipzig on May 27.

Palace progressed to this stage after a jubilant aggregate victory over Fiorentina. Meanwhile, Shakhtar reached the final four by defeating AZ Alkmaar 5–2 on aggregate. Arda Turan’s men boast vast experience in both the Champions League and Europa League.

However, the South Londoners previously enjoyed success in Poland against Dynamo Kiev this term. Shakhtar Donetsk vs Crystal Palace – Match Preview and Team News Date: Thursday, 30 April 2026 Kick-off: 20:00 BST Venue: Synerise Arena, Krakow Referee: João Pinheiro VAR: Tiago Martins Team news Shakhtar Donetsk Arda Turan has restored his strongest starting eleven after resting several stars at the weekend. The Pitmen boast fourteen Brazilians in their squad, including key playmaker Isaque Silva.

Isaque starts on the bench tonight as Turan manages his squad’s heavy workload. The Ukrainian champions remain eight points clear at the top of their domestic league. Crystal Palace Oliver Glasner is without three key first-team players for the trip to Krakow tonight.