England vs Ukraine

The very last match in group D will be England - Ukraine in Donetsk Stadium.

 

England is controlling their own faith tonight as they can advance with minimum a draw. After playing draw against the group favourites France (1-1), and won against Sweden in a magnificent match, things are now set for England to reach the quarter-finals. England’s best striker, Wayne Rooney, will return after serving his two matches of suspension. He will most likely play with his fellow teammate in Manchester United up front, Danny Welbeck. The question is if Theo Walcott would be able to play, after his hamstring problem late in the game against Sweden. Walcott was on fire for Three Lions and he turned the game all around by his appearance.

 

Ukraine can also decide their own chances to advance tonight. They will of course advance if they beat England. But they can also advance with a draw if Sweden beats France. However, it seems highly impossible and Ukraine must aim for the three points here. After a quite surprisingly and strong victory against Sweden (2-1), they got their feet back on the ground after suffering a defeat against France (0-2). France should have scored much more goals, so the result is lying a bit too. The Ukrainian legend, Andriy Shevchenko, has been suffering a knee-problem and is doubtful ahead of this important game.

 

England is better in every position and should go through into the quarter-finals. The appearance of Wayne Rooney on the pitch will give England the extra energy in their play, and will surely contribute in front of goal as well. Even if Ukraine got the home advantage, we could see against France that it has nothing to say when the players are at a lower standard. With a 50/50 chance of Shevchenko as well, England’s chances are looking very good here. However, Ukraine has nothing to loose here and will not be easy to beat, and considering that England can advance with a draw, I choose England (0) AH here.