Team Form and Recent Performances
Ukraine: Ukraine, under the management of Serhiy Rebrov, has shown a mix of resilience and tactical discipline throughout their Euro 2024 campaign. They kicked off with a challenging start, suffering a heavy 3-0 defeat to Romania. However, they bounced back impressively with a 2-1 victory over Slovakia, showing their ability to recover and compete. Key players like Mykola Shaparenko and Roman Yaremchuk have been instrumental in their performances, providing both creativity and goals.
Belgium: Belgium, managed by Domenico Tedesco, entered Euro 2024 as one of the tournament favorites. Despite a shocking 1-0 defeat to Slovakia in their opener, they regained their form with a convincing 2-0 win over Romania. With stars like Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, Belgium has the firepower to challenge any team. Their strong defensive record, coupled with a potent attack, makes them a formidable opponent.
Head-to-Head Record
This will be the first competitive meeting between Ukraine and Belgium, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the match. Historically, Belgium has performed well in matches against teams they are facing for the first time, remaining unbeaten in their last 22 such encounters. Meanwhile, Ukraine has only lost one of their last 11 matches against new opponents, making this a potentially tight contest.
Tactical Analysis
Ukraine’s Approach: Ukraine typically employs a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on solid defensive organization and quick counter-attacks. Serhiy Rebrov’s side is known for their disciplined approach, with a strong defensive line led by Mykola Matviienko. The midfield duo of Ruslan Malinovskyi and Serhiy Sydorchuk provides both defensive stability and creative support. Mykola Shaparenko, playing in the advanced midfield role, is crucial for linking play between the defense and attack. Up front, Roman Yaremchuk is the main goal threat, supported by wingers who exploit the flanks.
Belgium’s Approach: Belgium prefers a 3-4-2-1 formation, emphasizing a robust defensive structure and leveraging their physicality in midfield. Domenico Tedesco’s team is well-drilled, with a defense marshaled by Jan Vertonghen. The midfield duo of Kevin De Bruyne and Youri Tielemans plays a crucial role in both defense and attack. Romelu Lukaku, as the central striker, is supported by the creative prowess of Jérémy Doku and Leandro Trossard.
£30 Surprise Bet when you place a bet of at least £10 on any market.
Key Players to Watch
Ukraine:
- Mykola Shaparenko: The midfielder’s vision and passing ability are crucial for Ukraine’s attacking play.
- Roman Yaremchuk: Known for his pace and finishing, Yaremchuk is Ukraine’s main goal threat.
- Mykola Matviienko: The defender’s leadership and solidity at the back are vital for keeping Belgium’s attacks at bay.
Belgium:
- Kevin De Bruyne: The playmaker’s ability to create and score goals makes him a key player for Belgium.
- Romelu Lukaku: The prolific striker is Belgium’s main goal threat and has a knack for scoring crucial goals.
- Jérémy Doku: Known for his dribbling and speed, Doku can unlock defenses and create opportunities.
Predicted Lineups
Ukraine (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Anatolii Trubin
- Defenders: Oleksandr Tymchyk, Mykola Matviienko, Illia Zabarnyi, Vitalii Mykolenko
- Midfielders: Serhiy Sydorchuk, Ruslan Malinovskyi; Mykola Shaparenko, Oleksandr Zubkov, Mykhailo Mudryk
- Forward: Roman Yaremchuk
Belgium (3-4-2-1):
- Goalkeeper: Koen Casteels
- Defenders: Jan Vertonghen, Wout Faes, Arthur Theate
- Midfielders: Timothy Castagne, Youri Tielemans, Kevin De Bruyne, Yannick Carrasco
- Attacking Midfielders: Jérémy Doku, Leandro Trossard
- Forward: Romelu Lukaku
Betting Insights and Odds
According to the latest odds from various bookmakers, Belgium is favored to win this encounter. Betting sites show Belgium at 4/6 to win, while Ukraine is at 4/1, with a draw priced at 11/4. Popular betting markets for this match include “Both Teams to Score” and “Over 2.5 Goals,” given the attacking talents on display.
Top Betting Tips:
- Belgium to Win: Given their current form and historical advantage, Belgium is likely to secure a victory.
- Both Teams to Score: With both teams having strong attacking players, this bet has a good chance of coming through.
- Kevin De Bruyne to Score Anytime: De Bruyne’s ability to score from open play and set-pieces makes this a valuable bet.
£30 Surprise Bet when you place a bet of at least £10 on any market.
Match Prediction
Considering the form and tactical setups of both teams, this match promises to be an exciting encounter. Belgium’s disciplined approach and attacking prowess will test Ukraine’s defensive resilience. However, Ukraine’s counter-attacking threat and physicality could pose problems for Belgium. A potential scoreline prediction could be 3-1 in favor of Belgium, but a draw is also a plausible outcome given Ukraine’s capabilities.
