We’re into the final furlong as we get ready for the last push towards UEFA Euro 2024. This week, there are three playoff final games that will determine the final entrants into the tournament. These nations have come so far and now, they are within touching distance of what they’ve fought so hard to claim. Today, we’ll be taking a look at the clash between Ukraine and Iceland.
Ukraine Form GuideIt goes without saying that the Ukrainian national team has been through a lot, as can be said for the country as a whole. In the football sense, however, they need to bounce back after failing to qualify for the World Cup. They have the quality necessary to spring a few surprises, but what they appear to be lacking is some real team cohesion to help transform them into something new.
Ukraine went head to head with Bosnia last week in their playoff semi-final. It wound up being a far more even game than many had probably anticipated, but they did manage to get over the line, securing a crucial 2-1 victory.
Iceland Form GuideThat sensational 2016 Iceland side feels a long way away from where they are right now. They served as the ultimate underdog story and although many still look at them in that light, we’d argue that the shoe doesn’t really fit anymore. Perhaps if they can get back to the root of their initial style and capitalise on their chances like they used to, they could start to surge back into contention.
Iceland went on the road to face Israel and, to put it lightly, they tore through their semi-final opponents in ruthless fashion. They looked back to their very best in pretty much every way as they ran out 4-1 winners to book their place in the final.
Match PredictionBoth of these teams have the quality necessary to progress, but in terms of overall spirit, it feels like there’s one nation that is going to have a little bit more motivation in this one - and, in the end, quality. Because of that, we’re going to predict that Ukraine will win and reach the Euros.
