AEK Athens vs. Shakhtar Donetsk: Shakhtar's Late Goals Turn a Halftime Tie Into a 3–1 Win Over AEK

AEK Strike First in a Busy Opening Half

Shakhtar Donetsk and AEK Athens traded chances before their Champions League match reached halftime at 1–1. Moukoudi headed against the post early, while Ocheretko narrowly missed Alisson's pass behind the defense. Brignoli saved a low shot from Alisson, and Newertton sent the rebound over. Jovic also shot over for AEK before Majer put the visitors ahead in the 28th minute from a Pilios pass.

Six minutes later, Pedrinho converted a penalty after Alisson was fouled and the decision went through a VAR review. Zini then headed over from close range for AEK, and Pedro Henrique struck the crossbar for Shakhtar.

Riznyk Keeps the Second Half Level

After halftime, Newertton's shot hit a teammate. At the other end, Riznyk saved an attempt from Pilios and tipped away a Marin free kick. The match remained tied.

Substitutes Arrive Before Shakhtar Break Through

Isaque and Mendoza entered in the 63rd minute. After the substitutions, Ocheretko failed to make clean contact with a far-post header from a corner. Shakhtar then had a spell of midfield possession without creating much before Alisson supplied Vinicius Tobias in the 80th minute. Tobias finished from a tight angle at the near post to give Shakhtar its first lead.

Mendoza Adds the Final Goal

The two substitutes combined in the 86th minute. Isaque passed to Mendoza, who cut inside and shot into the far top corner. That goal completed Shakhtar's 3–1 win after the teams had been tied at halftime.