Shakhtar Donetsk secured a dominant 3-0 victory over AZ Alkmaar, with Alisson's late quickfire double sealing the UEFA Europa Conference League points.
Shakhtar Donetsk secured a dominant 3-0 victory over AZ Alkmaar in their UEFA Europa Conference League opener. A late flurry of goals, including a quickfire double from Alisson, sealed the win for the home side. The match was played at Stadion Miejski im. Henryka Reymana on April 9, 2026.
Shakhtar entered the contest looking to make a strong statement in Europe. They aimed to build on their home form and gather crucial early points. AZ Alkmaar, meanwhile, sought to upset the hosts and kickstart their own continental challenge away from home.
The first half began with a cautious approach from both teams. Shakhtar Donetsk commanded the majority of possession, patiently circulating the ball across the midfield. They probed for openings in the disciplined AZ defence.
Despite their territorial control, clear-cut scoring opportunities remained scarce for Shakhtar. AZ Alkmaar's backline held firm, restricting the hosts to just a few speculative attempts from outside the box. The Dutch side showed good organisation.
At the other end, AZ also created some promising moments. They registered three shots on target in the opening 45 minutes, testing the Shakhtar goalkeeper. However, his three crucial saves ensured the score remained level heading into the break.
The goalless first half presented both coaching staffs with a challenge. Tactical adjustments were expected to inject more urgency and creativity into the attacking phases. A breakthrough was desperately needed to spark the game.
The second period saw an increase in intensity and physicality. The referee issued yellow cards to AZ's Penetra in the 48th minute and Shakhtar's P. Henrique just after the hour mark. AZ's M. de Wit also received a caution in the 64th minute.
Shakhtar finally broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute. Pedrinho fired home after a clever build-up, slotting the ball past the AZ goalkeeper. This opener electrified the stadium and shifted the momentum firmly in Shakhtar's favour.
The home side pressed their advantage, bringing on substitute Eguinaldo. He made an immediate impact, providing a crucial assist for Shakhtar's second goal in the 81st minute. Alisson guided the ball expertly into the net to double the lead.
Alisson was not finished for the night. Just two minutes later, in the 83rd minute, he notched his second goal. He expertly tucked away another chance, completing a rapid and decisive scoring burst for Shakhtar Donetsk.
Shakhtar's late dominance is reflected in the statistics. They finished with 12 total shots, 6 on target, and an expected goals (xG) figure of 0.78. AZ Alkmaar managed 9 shots, 3 on target, and an xG of 0.49, highlighting their struggle to find the net.
This comprehensive 3-0 victory places Shakhtar Donetsk at the top of their group standings. AZ Alkmaar will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their next European challenge.
