Gleiker Mendoza records first assist with Shakhtar Donetsk

Venezuelan winger Gleiker Mendoza has made a notable contribution to Shakhtar Donetsk's early success in the Ukrainian Premier League, registering his first assist for the club in their recent 0-2 win over Epicentr.

The 23-year-old Mendoza has been a consistent starter for Shakhtar Donetsk this season, appearing in both of the club's opening league matches. He played 70 minutes in the team's victory against Kudrivka in the first round and followed up with another 69 minutes on the field during the match against Epicentr, where he provided the crucial pass for the second goal.

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Mendoza put in a great pass, and Oleg (Ocheretko) ran and scored; of course, we worked on that.

Teammate Yehor Nazaryna acknowledged Mendoza's contribution, stating, "Mendoza put in a great pass, and Oleg (Ocheretko) ran and scored; of course, we worked on that." Ocheretko scored the second goal after receiving Mendoza's pass from the left wing, maneuvering past defenders.

Shakhtar Donetsk currently sits atop the Ukrainian Premier League standings with a perfect six points from their first two games. The team is preparing for its next league match on August 17 against Kharkiv. Additionally, Shakhtar awaits the draw for the Champions League league phase, where they will compete in Europe's premier club competition. Head coach Arda Turan has emphasized the need for a strong, unified squad, stating, "We need 24 players who are all at the same level. That's how we achieved success last season. I tell my players: remember how you won, we need to keep being a family."

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We need 24 players who are all at the same level. That's how we achieved success last season. I tell my players: remember how you won, we need to keep being a family.