Slovakia vs Ukraine Prediction: Expert Analysis and Match Preview
Slovakia triumphed over Belgium in their Group E opener with a 1-0 victory, placing them at the top of the table in Euro 2024. This win sets a positive tone for their upcoming match against Ukraine. The two teams will clash at the Düsseldorf Arena on Friday afternoon. Can Ukraine bounce back after their disappointing defeat against Romania?
Slovakia’s Winning Streak
Slovakia enters this match with a strong defensive record, having secured a clean sheet in their last three games. They have been victorious in three consecutive matches. In contrast, Ukraine has faced challenges, losing two out of their last three games across all competitions. Historically, Slovakia and Ukraine have each won two out of their last five encounters.
High-Scoring Games and Defensive Prowess
Three of Slovakia’s last five games have featured at least three goals. Their spirited performance against Group E favorites Belgium marked Belgium’s first defeat in 16 games under coach Domenico Tedesco. Ivan Schranz emerged as the hero, while head coach Francesco Calzona praised his team’s solid defensive effort.
Ukraine, however, struggled in their 3-0 loss to Romania, with Serhiy Rebrov’s side appearing toothless in the attack. This defeat was one of the tournament’s biggest surprises.
Slovakia vs Ukraine – Line-ups and Team News
Slovakia Team News
Head coach Francesco Calzona has no reason to alter his starting line-up, given the absence of new injuries. Slovakia is expected to maintain their 4-3-3 formation:
- Goalkeeper: Dubravka
- Defenders: Pekarik, Vavro, Skriniar, Hancko
- Midfielders: Kucka, Lobotka, Duda
- Forwards: Schranz, Bozenik, Haraslin
Ukraine Team News
Despite their poor performance in the first match, it is unlikely that Serhiy Rebrov will make significant changes to his starting eleven. Ukraine is set to stick with their 4-2-3-1 formation:
- Goalkeeper: Lunin
- Defenders: Konoplya, Zabarnyi, Matviienko, Zinchenko
- Midfielders: Stepanenko, Shaparenko, Tygankov, Sudakov, Mudryk
- Forward: Dovbyk
Slovakian Defense Keeps the Ukrainians at Bay
Slovakia’s defensive performance against Belgium showcased their capability to hold off strong opponents. The 1-0 victory marked their third win in a row, following friendlies against San Marino and Wales. Head coach Calzona seems to have found the right strategy, making Slovakia a tough opponent for Ukraine.
Ukraine’s Form and Challenges
Ukraine possesses quality across the pitch but their key players are not performing at their best. They have only won one of their last four games in all competitions, conceding three goals in two of those matches. Historically, Ukraine has only won two of their last five meetings with Slovakia.
Betting on Slovakia: The Underdog Advantage
Given Slovakia’s recent form, betting on them to win or draw at odds of 1.70 is a sensible choice. They have kept a clean sheet in three consecutive matches, and three of their last five games have ended with at least three goals. Ukraine, on the other hand, failed to score against Romania. Furthermore, three of the last five head-to-head encounters between Slovakia and Romania have ended with fewer than three goals.
Considering the stakes, betting on fewer than 2.5 goals at odds of 1.66 is a smart move. Slovakia’s strong defense and Ukraine’s recent struggles in front of goal make this a likely outcome.
