PSV Eindhoven host Shakhtar Donetsk in the opening match of the 2026/27 Champions League league phase. Peter Bosz’s side look to start their European campaign strongly on home soil after an excellent domestic start, while Shakhtar (under Arda Turan) return to the competition after a Conference League semi-final run last season.

Form & Context

• PSV: Strong Eredivisie form with recent wins including 3-1 away at Ajax, 6-1 at Utrecht and 5-1 vs Groningen. Scoring freely (high-output attack) but can be open at the back.
• Shakhtar Donetsk: Solid start in the Ukrainian Premier League (mostly wins). Dangerous on the counter and experienced in European competition.

The only previous meeting was in November 2024 at the same venue: PSV came from 0-2 down to win 3-2 with three late goals.

Team News

PSV
Out/suspended: Mauro Júnior (suspended), Jerdy Schouten (ACL), Alassane Plea, Sam Ouaissa, others with various knocks. Armando Obispo is a doubt.

Possible lineup style: Kovář; Dest, Geertruida, Obispo, Kostić; midfield with Til/Sano/Fernández; Perisić, van Bommel, Pepi up front.

Shakhtar
Relatively fit; Pedrinho has been missing recently. Kauã Elias and Alisson among the attacking options.

Possible shape featuring Riznyk in goal and a mix of Ukrainian core + Brazilian talent.

Key Outlook

PSV’s home form and attacking intensity should give them the edge, though Shakhtar are well-organised and capable of punishing transitions. Expect an open, entertaining game with goals.

Prediction

PSV 2-1 Shakhtar Donetsk

Home advantage and current scoring form tip it toward the Dutch side for a positive start to their Champions League campaign. Both teams to score is also a strong possibility.