The Europa Conference League quarter-finals heat up this Thursday as Shakhtar Donetsk and AZ Alkmaar clash at the Stadion Miejski im. Henryka Reymana. With a spot in the final four on the line, this promises to be a tactical battle between two in-form sides. Catch all the action live on TNT Sports at 20:00.

Both teams are riding high on momentum. Shakhtar arrives fresh off a commanding 3-0 domestic win over Rukh Vynnyky, extending their impressive run to just one defeat in their last 17 matches across all competitions. At home, they've been particularly formidable, unbeaten in 12 and finding the net in their last five consecutive outings in front of their fans.

AZ Alkmaar, however, will be no pushovers. They secured a solid 2-0 victory against Fortuna Sittard last time out and have lost only once in their last five games. History also leans slightly in their favor; they've won both previous encounters with Shakhtar, including a 2-1 victory in their last meeting. Yet, their away form presents a challenge, having managed only one draw in their last 24 road trips—a stat Shakhtar will be eager to exploit.

Shakhtar's likely lineup, based on their last match, could feature key players like Lassina Traoré leading the line, supported by creative forces such as Pedrinho and Eguinaldo. AZ, meanwhile, may rely on the attacking threat of Mexx Meerdink and the midfield control of Sven Mijnans, as seen in their recent Eredivisie fixture.

This marks the first time these two clubs meet in the Conference League, adding an extra layer of intrigue. Will Shakhtar's formidable home strength and scoring prowess break AZ's historical hold, or can the Dutch side defy their travel woes and secure a crucial first-leg advantage? Tune in for what promises to be a compelling European night.