Inter vs Shakhtar prediction: expert analysis, possible lineups, October 21, 2026
On October 21, 2026, Inter will face Shakhtar in the third round of the Champions League league phase. The hosts are expected to go for nothing less than victory.
Inter vs Shakhtar: team news and expert analysis
After a trophyless 2024/2025 season, the Milan giants, coached by Chivu, managed to complete a "golden double." They have also made a strong start this season, although they have conceded too many goals and often had to fight their way back into games afterward — against Roma, a comeback from 0-2 was only enough for a draw. The Donetsk club have managed to reclaim top spot in the Ukrainian Premier League. They also started well there, although they have already suffered a domestic defeat.
The Italians faced one of Europe’s giants right from the start, taking on Real Madrid. However, their own mistakes cost them a 1-2 defeat. They then suffered a surprise 3-4 home loss to Brugge.
The Ukrainian flagship began with an away clash against PSV. They even opened the scoring, but the game ultimately ended in a 1-1 draw. Then, in a formally "home" match against AEK at Stamford Bridge, they secured a 3-1 victory thanks to goals scored late on.
Previous matches: Inter vs Shakhtar
There have been seven meetings in total. The Milan side have won three times and drawn four, including a 2-0 victory in November 2021.
Only a home win is expected here. However, Inter are vulnerable in defence, while the visitors are showing their strengths. Our pick is "both teams to score" (odds – 1.78).
Inter vs Shakhtar: key statistics and trends
- Inter have lost both of their previous matches
- Inter score an average of three goals and concede 1.29 goals per match
- In 71% of Inter’s matches, both teams score, while the average total is 4.29 goals per match
- Shakhtar are unbeaten in the League
- Shakhtar Donetsk score an average of 2.22 goals and concede 0.56 goals per match
- In 33% of Shakhtar’s matches, both teams score, while the average total is 2.78 goals per match
Inter vs Shakhtar: possible starting line-ups
Inter play in a 1-3-5-2 formation (possible line-up): Martinez - Bastoni, Bisseck, Pavard - Carlos Augusto, Jones, Calhanoglu, Barella, Diouf - Thuram, Lautaro Martinez
Shakhtar play in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (possible line-up): Riznyk - Pedro Henrique, Matviyenko, Bondar, Vinicius Tobias - Ocheretko, Marlon Gomes - Mendoza, Severino, Alisson Santana - Kaua Elias
Place your bets on the upcoming match and keep track of your team’s position in the Champions League standings
