Shakhtar's possession and Sporting's wide attacks put the next pass after pressure at the centre of this match. Both teams have found receivers beyond advancing opponents. Their recent results also show that attacking territory and defensive control are separate achievements.
Shakhtar want to draw pressure and connect Isaque to Alisson and Tobias, with an opposite winger arriving beyond the defence. Sporting have a more varied demonstrated route into the box: Inacio released the move that ended with Suarez scoring at Lens, while Fresneda has supplied both Suarez and Lima in subsequent matches. Those different receiving positions give Shakhtar more to defend than a single central striker.
Pedrinho's official replacement on the European squad list removes a proven through-ball connection. Isaque has supplied real alternatives, including his work against AEK, but Shakhtar's European possession has still produced limited chances and exposed them to counters. Sporting's existing service has operated without Zalazar, whose training and travelling-squad return adds another option. Interim coach Tiago Fernandes takes charge with the exact defensive shape still unannounced.
I expect an opening contest over central reception, followed by increasing importance for fresh wide players and supporting box runs. Sporting's ability to escape pressure and find more than one receiver carries the greater weight in that contest. That's why I'm siding with Sporting CP to win.
