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Ukraine fought back to get their first European Championship win on Friday.
In a thrilling encounter in Dusseldorf, Ukraine overcame an early deficit to secure a vital 2-1 victory over Slovakia, propelling themselves into second place in Group E at Euro 2024.
This match marked the first-ever meeting between the two nations at a major tournament.
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Slovakia entered the game with high spirits, fresh off their surprising win against Belgium, while Ukraine was determined to bounce back from a disheartening 3-0 loss to group leaders Romania.
The initial stages of the match saw Slovakia on the front foot, with Lukas Haraslín and Ivan Schranz testing Ukraine's goalkeeper, Anatoliy Trubin, who made two crucial saves to keep the scoreline level.
Despite these early warnings, Ukraine failed to stave off Slovakia's pressure, conceding the first goal in the 17th minute. Haraslín delivered a precise lofted cross from the byline, finding Schranz at the back post.
Schranz headed the ball low and hard under Trubin, giving Slovakia the lead. Ukraine nearly equalized shortly after when Artem Dovbyk's effort from close range was thwarted by a last-ditch challenge from Peter Pekarík.
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Slovakia's defence had a momentary lapse, offering Oleksandr Tymchyk a chance to score. Tymchyk's shot went across the face of the goal, but Martin Dúbravka managed to tip the ball onto the post, preserving Slovakia's lead going into halftime.
Ukraine came out with renewed vigor in the second half and quickly leveled the score. A swift counterattack saw Oleksandr Zinchenko delivering a precise pass to Mykola Shaparenko, who struck a first-time effort past Dúbravka at his near post in the 48th minute.
With momentum on their side, Ukraine continued to dominate and ultimately secured the winning goal ten minutes from time.
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Shaparenko, turning provider, flicked a pass into the box for substitute Roman Yaremchuk, who poked the ball under Dúbravka, completing the comeback.
Slovakia, unable to respond, must now avoid defeat against Romania to keep their hopes of advancing to the Round of 16 alive.
Meanwhile, Ukraine's victory offers a significant boost, rejuvenating their campaign after the disappointing opening match.
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Ukraine's resilience and strategic adjustments in the second half demonstrated their determination and ability to compete at this level, setting up an exciting conclusion to Group E.
Next, Ukraine will battle Belgium who are yet to play Romania for their second round. Slovakia will regroup to meet Romania for match day 3.
Follow Pulse Sports Kenya for more updates.
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