Alexandru Spiridon and company qualify for Champions League quarter-finals

Shaktar Donetsk, where Moldovan coach Alexandru Spiridon is assistant manager, qualified for the first time to the Champions League's quarter-finals stage. In the first knock-out round, the Ukrainians saw off the challenge of Italian side AS Roma. The Miners trashed the Romans 3-0 on Tuesday, March 8, in the second leg. Czech Hubschaman, Brazilian Willian and Croatia’s Eduardo netted the goals. Shaktar had won the first leg in Italy 3-2. The Ukrainians will learn their quarter-finals opponent after the draw on March 18. It is for the first time when a Moldovan coach or player reaches the quarter-finals of the most prestigious club competition. 50 year old Spiridon won the UEFA Cup with Shaktar in 2009.