If you had offered Ukraine’s supporters the exciting opportunity to sit second in Group C with one game left, they would probably have bitten you.
Andriy Shevchenko’s side have performed admirably in their initial two clashes, which drove a free-kicking Netherlands all the way in a 3-2 loss, and did enough to get past a happy Northern Macedonia, who played like an underdog without losing.
The job done until now, then.
Ukraine is a game away from the knockout rounds, but they must get a positive result against third-placed Austria. The current goal difference dictates that a draw is enough for Shevchenko’s army, but entering a Euro 2020 decision-maker with that mentality is a dangerous attitude.
They will aim for victory against Das Team, but which starting line – up should Ukraine’s coach choose?
Safe hands / Vadim Ghirda – Pool / Getty Images
Heorhiy Bushchan (GK) – This guy was great against Northern Macedonia. Bushchan made an incredible save that unfortunately led to a penalty, stopping the spot just for Gianni Alioski to make the return. Deserved better luck.
Oleksandr Karavayev (RB) – An experienced boss in a young backline. His years of knowledge are invaluable to the success and organization of this bodyguard.
Illya Zabarnyi (CB) – Only 18 years old, but a seriously exciting perspective. Zabarnyi is one to keep an eye on against Austria on Monday.
Mykola Matviyenko (CB) – Probably the big name in the backline, tipped for a big move as well. Matviyenko can further increase his profile with a victory and a clean sheet here.
Vitaliy Mykolenko (LB) – Dynamo Kyiv starlet Mykolenko is only 22 years old, but he is comfortable on the European stage. Time to see what all the fuss is about.
Manchester City Toolkit / Justin Setterfield / Getty Images
Mykola Shaparenko (CM) – Hungary scored four goals for FC Dynamo Kiev last season, and he hopes to add it to the international stage.Taras Stepanenko (CM) – A tough, physical presence in the middle of the field. He will be happy that David Alaba starts in defense rather than as a direct rival in midfield.
Oleksandr Zinchenko (CM) – The Manchester City man can do a bit of everything for Ukraine, and usually does. He starts in midfield, a role we see less often at Etihad.
Deadly Partnership / Robert Ghement – Pool / Getty Images
Andriy Yarmolenko (RW) – BTEC Arjen Robben. Let him cut into the left foot, then maybe he’s hammering a thunderbolt in the far corner. Nothing stops him – sometimes. Let’s hope Yarmolenko blows hard against Austria.
Roman Yaremchuk (ST) – A goal for Yaremchuk against Northern Macedonia was exactly what the doctor ordered. He’s ready for more, so watch out, Austria.
Ruslan Malinovskyi (LW) – The Atalanta man with the roaring left stick fluffed his lines towards Northern Macedonia by missing a penalty, so he will aim for revenge next time.
