Watch AZ Alkmaar vs Shakhtar Donetsk Live: Ben Andrews on Premier Sports 2 HD World Feed Commentary
Match date:
See commentator listings for today's matches.
Watch AZ Alkmaar vs Shakhtar Donetsk Live: Ben Andrews on Premier Sports 2 HD World Feed Commentary
Football fans in the Republic of Ireland are in for a treat this evening as Premier Sports 2 HD brings exclusive live coverage of the UEFA Conference League quarter-final second leg between AZ Alkmaar and Shakhtar Donetsk. Kicking off at 17:45 UK time from the AFAS Stadion in Alkmaar, Netherlands, this match sees Shakhtar holding a commanding 3-0 aggregate lead after their dominant first-leg victory[1][2][4]. With no major British broadcasters like ITV, BBC, Sky Sports or TNT Sports involved, Premier Sports steps up for ROI viewers, utilising the high-quality world feed commentary led by the experienced Ben Andrews[1].
The clash pits Dutch Eredivisie side AZ Alkmaar, known for their attacking flair under manager Maarten Martens, against Ukrainian giants Shakhtar Donetsk, who are chasing European glory amid challenging circumstances. AZ will need a miraculous comeback – one of the great European nights – to overturn the deficit and reach their first Conference League semi-final since 2022/23[5][8]. Shakhtar, unbeaten in 15 home European games prior to this tie, have one foot in the semis thanks to their clinical display in Donetsk, where they netted three without reply[4][5].
At the commentary helm is Ben Andrews, a seasoned broadcaster whose career spans decades covering top-tier football across Europe. Andrews has been a staple on UEFA world feeds, delivering insightful analysis with his distinctive style honed from years calling matches for beIN Sports and other international outlets. His experience in high-stakes European ties makes him the perfect voice for this intriguing quarter-final, where he’ll break down tactics, player battles and the electric atmosphere at the AFAS Stadion[1]. Premier Sports 2 HD’s use of the world feed ensures crystal-clear production values, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the action without missing a beat.
AZ Alkmaar head into this game on a strong run, winning 11 of their last 16 UEFA matches with five clean sheets, and they remain unbeaten in 15 home European outings[5]. Key man Sven Mijnans, with six goals this season, will be central to their hopes, supported by the likes of Y. Nazaryna in midfield[3]. The Cheese Farmers thrive on home soil, where their high-pressing game can unsettle opponents, but facing Shakhtar’s resolute defence – led by experienced campaigners – will test their resolve[7]. For more on AZ’s European pedigree, check out their official profile on the UEFA website.
Meanwhile, Shakhtar Donetsk arrive brimming with confidence after their 3-0 first-leg triumph, a result that showcased their technical superiority and counter-attacking prowess[4][9]. Despite playing ‘home’ games in neutral venues due to the ongoing situation in Ukraine, Shakhtar have adapted superbly, maintaining their status as 2009 UEFA Cup winners and perennial European contenders[2]. Manager Marino Pušić will urge caution, knowing AZ’s home form could spark a revival, but with players like Y. Nazaryna pulling strings, they look primed to progress[3].
This UEFA Conference League quarter-final promises drama, with AZ chasing history and Shakhtar eyeing a semi-final spot. The 17:45 UK time kick-off aligns perfectly for evening viewing on Premier Sports 2 HD, exclusively for ROI audiences. Tune in early to catch pre-match build-up, where Ben Andrews’ expert insights will set the scene for what could be a tense affair at the AFAS Stadion[1][6]. Odds favour Shakhtar at -110, but football’s unpredictability means anything can happen in Europe’s third-tier competition[2].
AZ’s recent form – including strong home stats – offers hope, yet Shakhtar’s aggregate cushion is formidable[5]. Highlights from the first leg are already racking up views online, underscoring the tie’s appeal[9][10]. For British readers outside ROI, streaming options via Paramount+ or ESPN may be available internationally, but Premier Sports holds the fort for Irish football enthusiasts[2].
Don’t miss Ben Andrews calling the action as AZ push for glory and Shakhtar defend their lead. This is must-watch Conference League fare, blending Dutch dynamism with Ukrainian resilience in Alkmaar tonight.
Article generated: 16 April 2026, 17:45 GMT
p