Porto vs Shakhtar Donetsk prediction 13/12/2023

• Date: 13/12/2023
• Competition: Champions League
• KO: 21:00 CET
• Venue: Estádio Do Dragão (Porto)

A winner-takes-all clash takes place at the Estádio Do Dragão on Wednesday as second-placed Porto hosts third-placed Shakhtar Donetsk with a place in the last sixteen up for grabs. 

Porto vs Shakhtar Donetsk Betting Tips - BTTS

The stakes couldn't be much higher for both teams as they come into this crucial fixture locked together on nine points from five matches played. 

The Portuguese side claimed a 3:1 when these sides met earlier in the section and with home advantage, holds all the aces for this dramatic showdown. Shakhtar must win, while Porto know a draw will be enough to secure their place in the knockout phase.

Shakhtar had looked to be on their way out of the competition before an upset 1:0 win against Barcelona on matchday five ensured their hopes of qualification for the latter stages remain very much alive. 

On their travels, the Ukranians have proven an awkward customer, both historically and in this year's competitions. Shakhtar claimed a 3:2 win against Antwerp in Belgium before a narrow 2:1 loss in Spain against Barcelona. Marino Pusic´s side have also seen BTTS in their last five away UCL games while four of those saw at least three goals scored. The Ukranians netted in away matches against Real Madrid, RB Leipzig and the aforementioned Catalans during that goal-scoring run. 

While Porto are definite favourites to qualify with only a draw required, I expect Shakhtar to make this a nervy night in Portugal so I'm taking BTTS. The Ukrainian champions have only failed to net in four of 17 previous away UCL encounters, and given their recent form, can trouble a home side who should also be expected to net.

BTTS is my top pick and with Shakhtar needing a win, don´t be surprised to see at least three goals scored as they chase a late winner in Oporto.