Match Previews

No injuries or suspension reported in the Metalist camp... Defence the key to their success... Three 1-0 wins in the Group Stages... Currently sitting second in the Ukrainian league, Metalist approach what they will consider to be a hugely difficult task when facing Sampdoria in the UEFA Cup this week. They may have won their Group, however, their progress was, as their name suggests, somewhat industrial. Three 1-0 victories were coupled with a scoreless draw against Hertha Berlin as the Kharkiv side made impressive progress through a group that also contained Galatasaray, Hertha Berlin and Benfica – they are certainly not a side to be underestimated. Indeed, aside from a 1-0 reverse against Besiktas back in September, Metalist are unbeaten in Europe this season. In addition, they have made their home stadium something of a fortress, losing only one of six prior European ties at the venue. On the face of it, their side lacks experience, however, there is a steely resolve in the unit that has helped them shock so many sides to progress this far. A strong defensive base is clearly where they hope to base their foundation against Sampdoria from. That is not to say that they cannot score goals – Besitkas were hammered 4-1 in the Ukraine earlier this season while a mid-season friendly against Locomotive of Tashkent last week ended 5-1 in Metalist’s favour. Slavia Prague have also recently been dispatched 2-0. Goryainov will play in goal for the Ukrainians, supported by a strong defensive unit that has plenty of international experience. Gancarczyk and Obradovic should both feature while Boridyan and Papa Gueye should also start. Rykun and Slyusar should both feature in midfield while Edmar and Olynyk are also potential starters. Acevedo has been registered from the competition after signing from San Lorenzo; the Argentine is very highly rated. Jaja was voted Ukraine’s Player of the Year in 2008 and will look to start the new footballing year positively. No official squad named.