AZ Alkmaar vs Shakhtar Donetsk Prediction 16.04.2026 | UEFA Conference League

Lee-Roy Echteld’s side find themselves in a precarious position following a late defensive collapse in the first leg, where they suffered a crushing 3-0 defeat in Krakow, conceding three times in the space of just 11 minutes after holding firm for over an hour.

Despite that continental setback, the Kaaskoppen have kept their European ambitions alive on the domestic front, producing a commanding display to dispatch Heerenveen 3-0 on home soil, a result that should inject a measure of belief ahead of the daunting task that awaits them in Europe.

Overall, AZ Alkmaar are likely to lean heavily on their formidable home form, having overcome each of their last seven visitors at the AFAS Stadion, including an emphatic 4-0 victory over Noah and a hard-fought 2-1 success against Sparta Prague in European competition.

Preparations for the second leg have been somewhat disrupted by a thinning squad, with influential midfielder Peer Koopmeiners and defender Denso Kasius both facing late fitness tests, potentially leaving interim boss Echteld slightly short of options.

Arda Turan’s men will carry a commanding advantage into Thursday’s second leg, having effectively dismantled AZ Alkmaar with a devastating 11-minute triple burst at their temporary base in Krakow, where the ruthless finishing of Alisson Santana and Pedrinho proved decisive.

While European progression is now firmly within reach, the Pitmen remain deeply engaged in a fierce domestic title race, currently occupying second place in the Ukrainian Premier League on 51 points, level with leaders LNZ Cherkasy following a pulsating 2-2 draw between the sides on Monday.

Having already demonstrated their resilience in high-pressure scenarios earlier in the competition, the Ukrainian heavyweights possess the composure required to navigate a daunting trip to the AFAS Stadion, fully aware that a single away goal could effectively extinguish any lingering hopes of a Dutch comeback.

However, Turan is facing a handful of selection concerns amid a congested April schedule, with midfield duo Marlon Gomes and Dmytro Kryskiv both doubtful due to injury issues, while Brazilian pair Isaque Silva and Eguinaldo are set to undergo late fitness assessments.