Our Predictions
Shakhtar is the clear favorite with decent odds at 1.67, and their attacking, combined with Ilves's recent goal-scoring streak at home, suggests both sides will find the net. This match features enough attacking intent and a cautious defense to see both teams score, making this a solid pick.
Both teams have shown they can score and concede. With the relative openness of the UEFA group stage games and the potential for an early goal, over 2.5 goals makes sense given the attacking setups of both sides.
Ilves will likely stiffen up early, and Shakhtar might need time to break them down. Expect a defensive first half, followed by Shakhtar's quality to shine in the second, possibly sealing a win after a goalless first 45.
Welcome to Extratips, where today we dive into the UEFA Europa League clash between Ilves and Shakhtar Donetsk! The game kicks off on 17th July 2025 at 16:00 in Europe, promising more than just a friendly Scandinavian affair. Ilves, currently grinding away in the Veikkausliiga, last played at home, securing a 4-0 thrashing of Haka, showing they’re no pushovers on familiar turf. Meanwhile, Shakhtar, the seasoned Ukrainian giants, are coming in after a goalless draw with Ilves and a mixed bag of recent results, including a 1-1 against Rukh Vynnyky. The odds paint a familiar picture: Shakhtar as strong favorites at 1.67, with Ilves at a tempting 4.20, and a draw at 4.00. With the teams locked at 0-0 in their previous encounter, expectations lean toward a cautious start. Ilves’s strengths lie in their resilience and recent attacking progress, but they struggle to break down tough defenses—like Shakhtar’s. The Ukrainians flex their experience and firepower but sometimes lack aggression in the final third, especially away from home. Key factors? Shakhtar’s squad depth vs. Ilves’s fighting spirit, and how each side adapts tactically. The storyline here? Can Ilves leverage their home advantage to upset the odds, or will Shakhtar’s star quality shine through in this high-stakes group stage opener? Expect a tight game, but the away side’s quality makes a win more probable. Predictions lean towards a Shakhtar win, possibly with both teams scoring, but the match could swing either way based on early momentum.