The UEFA Conference League quarter-final delivers a high-stakes encounter as Shakhtar Donetsk host AZ Alkmaar in the first leg at Stadion Miejski im. Henryka Reymana in Krakow, Poland. This fixture carries significant weight, with the winner advancing to the semifinals of Europe’s third-tier competition. Shakhtar, currently second in the Ukrainian Premier League, face a Dutch side sitting sixth in the Eredivisie but boasting impressive European form with 11 wins in 16 Conference League matches. AZ hold a 2-0 historical advantage from their 2004-05 UEFA Cup meetings.
Match Preview
Shakhtar Donetsk enter this quarter-final showdown with momentum on their side, securing four wins in their last five matches across all competitions. The Ukrainian giants have been clinical in attack, averaging 2.0 goals per game in the Conference League while maintaining a solid defensive record of 0.6 goals conceded per match recently. Their journey through the competition includes eight victories, though they suffered a 1-2 home defeat to Lech Poznan in the round of 16 second leg before advancing 4-3 on aggregate. Playing home matches in Krakow due to circumstances, Shakhtar have adapted well to neutral territory.
AZ Alkmaar arrive in Poland as dangerous underdogs, trailing PSV by 26 points domestically but thriving in European competition. The Dutch side demolished Sparta Prague in the previous round, winning both legs convincingly. With 2.4 goals scored per match in their last five outings and a Conference League record of 11 wins from 16 games, AZ possess the attacking firepower to trouble any defense. This marks their seventh European quarter-final and second in this competition. The historical edge from 2004-05, when they eliminated Shakhtar 5-2 on aggregate, adds psychological weight. Both teams average 2.0 goals scored per Conference League match, promising an entertaining tactical battle.
Kickoff Time
The match kicks off at 19:00 UTC on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Stadion Miejski im. Henryka Reymana in Krakow. For viewers in different time zones, the start times are:
- United Kingdom & Ireland: 20:00 GMT
- Central Europe (Germany, Poland, Netherlands): 21:00 CET
- Eastern Europe (Romania, Ukraine): 22:00 EET
- Malaysia & Brunei: 04:00 MYT (April 10)
- South America (Chile, Peru, Bolivia): 16:00 CLT / 15:00 PET / 16:00 BOT
How to watch online & on TV
The UEFA Conference League quarter-final is widely available across multiple platforms globally. In the UK and Ireland, TNT 7 and discovery+ provide comprehensive coverage. German viewers can tune into Sky Mix, while Dutch fans have access through Ziggo. Scandinavian coverage comes via Viaplay in Norway. Most streaming services require active subscriptions, with prices varying by region. Discovery+ typically costs £6.99/month in the UK, while TNT Sports packages start at £29.99/month. Check your local broadcaster for specific subscription requirements and pricing.
| 🇬🇧 England | TNT 7, discovery+ |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | Sky Mix |
| 🏴 Scotland | TNT 7, discovery+ |
| 🇳🇱 Netherlands | Ziggo |
| 🇳🇴 Norway | Viaplay |
| 🇮🇪 Ireland | discovery+, TNT 7 |
| 🇬🇧 Northern Ireland | TNT 7, discovery+ |
| 🇵🇱 Poland | Polsat Sport Extra 4 |
| 🇷🇴 Romania | Prima Play |
| 🏴 Wales | TNT 7, discovery+ |
| 🇭🇷 Croatia | Arena 7 HR |
| 🇨🇱 Chile | Disney+ P Chi |
| 🇵🇪 Peru | Disney+ P Chi |
| 🇧🇴 Bolivia | Disney+ P Chi |
| 🇲🇾 Malaysia | beIN SPORTS MAX Malaysia, beIN Malaysia |
| 🇧🇳 Brunei | beIN Malaysia |
| 🇺🇦 Ukraine | Megogo |
How to watch anywhere with VPN
Geographic restrictions blocking your access to the match? A VPN (Virtual Private Network) bypasses geo-blocks by masking your location, allowing you to stream from anywhere. This technology routes your connection through servers in different countries, making it appear you’re accessing content from an authorized region. Here’s how to set it up:
- Choose a reliable VPN provider: Select a service with fast servers and strong encryption (NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark are popular options)
- Install and connect: Download the VPN app on your device (iOS, Android, Smart TV, laptop), then connect to a server in your desired country (e.g., UK for TNT Sports access)
- Access your streaming platform: Log into your broadcaster’s website or app as normal; the platform will detect your VPN location
- Start streaming: Navigate to the live match and enjoy unrestricted access
Most premium VPN services cost between $3-12/month with money-back guarantees. Ensure your streaming subscription is valid for the region you’re connecting to.
How to watch at Sportsbooks
Many online sportsbooks offer live streaming of UEFA Conference League matches as a complimentary service for registered users with funded accounts. This option provides a convenient alternative to traditional broadcasters, often without requiring separate subscriptions. Betting sites typically require only a small account balance or recent betting activity to unlock streaming access. Here’s the process:
- Register an account: Sign up with a licensed sportsbook operating in your jurisdiction (Bet365, Unibet, and William Hill commonly stream European football)
- Verify your identity: Complete KYC (Know Your Customer) requirements by uploading ID documents
- Deposit funds: Add money to your account via credit card, e-wallet, or bank transfer (minimum deposits typically £5-10)
- Locate the stream: Look for the ‘Play’ or ‘Watch Live’ icon next to the Shakhtar vs AZ fixture in the sportsbook’s live section
- Meet viewing requirements: Some platforms require a bet on the match or a minimum account balance to activate streaming
Check your sportsbook’s terms for specific streaming eligibility criteria and regional availability.
This quarter-final clash promises tactical intrigue and attacking flair as two in-form sides battle for a Conference League semifinal berth. With AZ’s historical advantage and Shakhtar’s home momentum, the first leg in Krakow sets the stage for a captivating two-legged tie. Don’t miss the action on April 9, and return to TipsGG for post-match analysis, player ratings, and second leg predictions.