Shakhtar Donetsk became the 32nd and last team to secure a place in the Champions League group stage.
After winning 1-0 away from home with a goal by ex-Benfica Pedrinho (he is absent from this match due to injury), the Ukrainian team drew 2-2 in Monaco in a match that was decided only in overtime.
In need of a win, Monaco had a tie in their hands and in the first half they were winning 2-0, with a double from striker Ben Yedder.
Galic’s team pragmatism, with Gelson Martins on the eleven, was able to outpace the Ukrainian team’s seemingly greater technical capabilities, making it difficult (at least) to eliminate the drawback and take the game for another 30. Minutes.
In the 74th minute, Roberto de Zerbe’s “carousel” finally succeeded and Marlos finished off the best way to a beautiful move.
The match went into overtime and there was a clear view of the better physical condition of Monaco, who did more to avoid the penalty shootout lottery. But then another lottery came into the picture: luck (or, depending on the side, bad luck).
In the 114th minute, Robin Aguilar, who was wearing the Monaco captain’s armband, appeared to have successfully intercepted a pass attempt from Modric to his Shakhtar teammate, but he ended up conceding his own net. This was Monaco’s “farewell” to the Champions League and confirmation of another Ukrainian team joining Dynamo Kiev.
Melody Gross is a contributor at Brytfmonline.com, covering a wide range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. She is committed to delivering clear, accurate, and reader-focused reporting that helps audiences stay informed about current events and important developments. With a focus on useful information and balanced storytelling, Melody aims to present timely stories and relevant insights in a way that is accessible, engaging, and easy to understand.