(Interstat) — Preview: Shakhtar Donetsk vs. Rijeka in UEFA Europa Conference League

A crucial UEFA Europa Conference League group stage match pits Ukrainian power Shakhtar Donetsk against Croatian side Rijeka on Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025.

The fixture presents a stark contrast in recent form. Shakhtar, the designated home team, enters on a dominant run in domestic competition, having outscored opponents 12-0 over its last two matches, including a 5-0 rout of Epits Dunayivtsi on Dec. 14. Its European form has been solid, with a 2-0 victory over Hamrun Spartans on Dec. 11.

Rijeka, however, brings momentum from a commanding 3-0 home win against Celje in its last outing on Dec. 11. The Croatian club’s continental campaign has been inconsistent, marked by a disappointing 1-0 home loss to AEK Larnaca on Nov. 27 but also a resilient 1-0 victory over Sparta Prague on Oct. 24.

Historical data suggests a tight contest. According to Interstat’s game simulator, the projected final score is a 1-1 draw. This aligns with Rijeka’s pattern of gritty European performances, including two draws in its last three Conference League matches.

Shakhtar will rely on its explosive offense, which has produced multiple high-scoring results this season. However, a 2-1 loss to Legia Warszawa on Oct. 23 shows vulnerability at home in European play.

Rijeka’s key will be replicating its defensive resolve from the Sparta Prague win while capitalizing on counter-attacks. Its offense, which erupted for four goals against Maksimir Zagreb in September, is capable but has also been shut out three times in European competition this season.

The match will be a test of Shakhtar’s attacking prowess against Rijeka’s sporadic but proven ability to secure results against established clubs. With group stage implications likely at stake, the simulator’s projection of a deadlock underscores the anticipated competitiveness of this Eastern European clash.