Italian Football

Inter's Champions League Path: Shakhtar Showdown Crucial for Nerazzurri's Progression

October 22, 2026Diego Herrera1 мин

Inter's recent victory over Bologna has somewhat eased the pressure following their poor showing in the Champions League against Club Brugge. Tonight, the Nerazzurri face Shakhtar Donetsk in a match that will significantly shape their European campaign.

Victory is imperative to avoid serious trouble.

The team currently sits at zero points in their Champions League group. Reaching the knockout stage of the main competition is now highly improbable; it would require a near-perfect run of results, or at least avoiding further draws.

Given this context, defeating Shakhtar is essential. While the top eight might be out of reach, securing a place in the playoffs must be the minimum objective. An early exit from the group stage would be a disaster for Inter. There are still many matches left, and this worst-case scenario is not yet a certainty. However, the team needs to start accumulating three points against the Ukrainian club to lay the foundation for at least reaching the Round of 32.

After falling to Real Madrid and Club Brugge, Inter urgently needs to shift into Champions League mode.