Arda Turan has included Bondarenko in the starting lineup for tonight's crucial UEFA Europa League qualifier between "Shakhtar" Donetsk and "Panathinaikos" in Krakow. The Turkish coach made this decision following "Shakhtar's" recent 3:3 draw against "Karpaty" Lviv.
"After analyzing our previous performances, I believe Bondarenko brings the balance we need in midfield for this important match," Turan might have explained before the game.
Meanwhile, Greek side "Panathinaikos" isn't standing still either. Their coach Rui Vitoria has made tactical adjustments compared to the first leg that ended in a goalless draw, bringing Gnezda-Cherin into his midfield triangle.
Worth noting that both teams are fielding strong lineups for this decisive clash. "Shakhtar" is relying on Riznik in goal with a defensive line of Vinicius, Bondar, Matviyenko, and Pedrinho Azevedo. The attack will be led by Alisson, Elias, and Neverton.
For the visitors, Drongovski takes the goalkeeper position while Kotsiras, Palmer-Brown, Tuba, and Kyriakopoulos form the back four. Interestingly, their forward line features Pellistri, Swiderski, and Tete.
The match kicks off at 21:00 Kyiv time at the stadium in Krakow. After a 0:0 result in the first leg, who will show more determination to advance to the next round of Europa League qualification?
