The highly anticipated UEFA Europa League qualifier between Panathinaikos and Shakhtar Donetsk ended in a 0-0 draw. The first leg of the third-round qualifier, held at the Athens Olympic Stadium on August 7, 2025, saw both teams battling fiercely but failing to break the deadlock.
First Half Stalemate
The first half was a cagey affair, with both sides showing tactical discipline. While there were plenty of hard tackles and yellow cards, clear-cut scoring opportunities were scarce. Shakhtar Donetsk made a substitution at halftime, bringing on Artem Bondarenko for Marlon, hoping to inject more attacking impetus into their game.
Second Half Action
The second half saw increased urgency from both teams, but neither could find the back of the net. Panathinaikos, spurred on by their home crowd, pushed forward, while Shakhtar Donetsk looked dangerous on the counter-attack. However, solid defending and goalkeeping ensured the match remained goalless.
Panathinaikos, having been knocked out of the Champions League qualifiers by Rangers, were eager to secure an advantage at home. Shakhtar Donetsk, on the other hand, came into the match in good form, having progressed through earlier rounds of the Europa League. The result leaves the tie finely balanced heading into the second leg.
What's Next?
The second leg promises to be another intense encounter, with both teams knowing a win is crucial to progress in the Europa League. Football fans will be eagerly awaiting the return match to see which team will emerge victorious.
- Match: Panathinaikos vs Shakhtar Donetsk
- Competition: UEFA Europa League Qualifiers
- Score: 0-0
- Date: August 7, 2025
- Venue: Athens Olympic Stadium