Juventus assistant coach Angelo Alessio has said that he is "very optimistic" about winning against Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Wednesday.

A win for the Italian champions in Ukraine will see them qualify for the last 16 as Group E winners, while a draw will send both sides through to the knockout rounds.

"I think we have been improving from game to game, so I am very optimistic about the match in Donetsk," he said.

"We should concentrate from the start, stay focused and fight for every ball. Control of the ball will be crucial, as we need to press them and not allow them to play the football they want to play.

"Our actions during the opening minutes will be very important."

Juventus are currently second in the group with nine points from five matches, a point behind leaders Shakhtar and two ahead of third-placed Chelsea.