Match Prediction: Ukraine vs Belgium UEFA European Championship 2024
Group E is set to be thrilling. Belgium might be considered the favourites to advance to the last 16 but they should be aware that no easy games await them. At the World Cup, they were incredibly poor, which resulted in them removing some of the older players from their squad. For many of the players involved, though, this does feel like Belgian's last chance for glory, considering only some of the players from their so-called golden generation remain.
Ukraine's story is very different. They will be looking to put in a strong performance against the group favourites and will be delighted to pick up any positive result.
How did they qualify?
The manner in which these two nations qualified for this tournament were in complete contrast. For Belgium, they finished top of their group with ease, which came as a welcome lift considering how poor they were in the World Cup.
During the qualifying phase, Ukraine often looked very limited but was unfortunate not to automatically qualify from a tough group that included teams like England and Italy.
During the playoffs, things looked to be going horribly wrong as they were 1-0 down versus Iceland at halftime. However a spirited comeback saw them win the game 2-1 in normal time. A great result for the nation who are, of course going through an unthinkable time in their history.
Team Analysis
The captain, Andriy Yarmolenko, is suffering from an Achilles injury, and he hopes to be back in time for the Euros. This will, of course, be a huge blow to a Ukrainian side that needs all the help they can have against a strong Belgian side. Ukraine rely on counter-attacking football, and considering how the manager Roberto Martinez likes his teams to play football, they might have the opportunity to create some chances.
Players to watch
The Belgians have a fantastic footballing side full of attacking flair. They will be setting up one prolific striker who needs to put in a huge performance for the Belgians if they are to realise their dreams.
- Romelu Lukaku: Belgium's top scorer of all time is underrated by many. He has scored goals at every club he's been at and will be essential if Belgium are to finally realise their major title dreams.
If Ukraine are going to fare well in this game, they will need to find a nice balance between attack and defence. This is why we have highlighted one man who will be crucial to both aspects of the game.
- Oleksandr Zinchenko: The Arsenal man, at times, has been criticised for his defending. What can't be argued, however, is that he's a wonderful footballer who, when at his best, is as good as any left back in the game.
Prediction
In recent history, this Ukrainian side has been underwhelming to watch, mainly due to their lack of attacking enterprise. Anything is possible in the group stages but we are finding it difficult to look past a comfortable Belgium win.