Inter seek first Champions League points against unbeaten Shakhtar Donetsk

Inter Milan will be looking to end their disappointing start to the UEFA Champions League campaign when they host unbeaten Shakhtar Donetsk, with the Italian giants missing captain and leading goalscorer Lautaro Martínez. The Nerazzurri have suffered consecutive defeats against Real Madrid (2-1) and Club Brugge (4-3), leaving them without a point after two matches for the first time since the 2006/07 season.

Inter have now lost four consecutive Champions League matches, their longest losing streak in the competition, while seven defeats in their last eight European outings underline their recent struggles. Despite their poor continental form, Inter remain dangerous in attack, with their last seven competitive matches producing at least three goals.

Shakhtar, meanwhile, arrive in impressive form under Arda Turan, having won 10 of their opening 12 matches across all competitions. The Ukrainian champions have collected four points from their first two Champions League fixtures but remain winless in their last seven away matches in the competition.

History favours Inter, who are unbeaten in seven previous meetings with Shakhtar, recording three victories and four draws while conceding just once. Play Responsibly Federico Dimarco could prove influential for the hosts after creating six chances and registering an assist against Club Brugge.

The Italian defender now has seven Champions League assists for Inter, just two behind Wesley Sneijder's club record. For Shakhtar, Gleiker Mendoza will be looking to maintain his impressive European form, having scored in both of his side's opening league-phase matches.

Inter will also be without Curtis Jones and Benjamin Pavard, while Shakhtar are expected to miss defenders Irakli Azarovi and Marlon. With their European campaign already under pressure, Inter will be desperate to secure three points and avoid a third successive defeat, while Shakhtar will hope to extend their unbeaten start.