It was only last year when Blues visited the Metalist Stadium for a Champions League tie between Shakhtar Donetsk and Manchester City and in doing so witnessed Sergio Aguero score a last-minute penalty. Unfortunately, City succumbed to their first UCL defeat of the season, 2-1.
I didn’t go to the 2017 game in the Ukraine and so I can’t comment on how the locals greeted and treated the away supporters (I would love to hear your thoughts?). In addition, if you are currently in the country for Tuesday night’s Group F tie how are you finding the experience?
Every country has their Ultras/hooligans
I could have picked any news story about just how excellent and respectable Shakhtar Donetsk supporters conduct themselves. However, my statement is easier said than done.
The Press Association article dated 1 November 2017.
>>>Ukrainian police say they have detained 52 people for fan violence ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League game between Shakhtar Donetsk and Dutch club Feyenoord.
Police say they arrived at a bar in the city of Kharkiv where “a conflict had occurred between Dutch and Ukrainian fans” and took 52 people to a police station for questioning.
Police say windows were broken and the interior of the bar was damaged.
>>>end of quote.
Manchester City FC has issued the travelling Blues a supporter information pack.
From Politics to Sport – The Donbass Conflict and Shakhtar Donetsk
If you click or tap here, you will get access to the above 2017 headline article.
I am hopeful the local Ultras stay well away from the area on Tuesday and the hundreds of Blues going to the game return home safe and sound.
If you watch this clip may I suggest you turn off the volume on your device as the backing track may well drive you insane?
Stay safe Blues.