Ukraine came from behind to beat Slovakia 2-1 in their Group E encounter, with Roman Yaremchuk proving the hero with a stunning late goal.
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Ukraine earn much-needed winSlovakia went ahead in the first halfTwo second-half goals turn the match aroundGettyTELL ME MORE
Ukraine secured their first points of the campaign, but they had to come from behind after conceding in the 17th minute. Lukas Haraslin delivered a cross from the left that Ivan Schranz headed home for his second goal of the tournament.
Serhiy Rebrov’s side then began to assert themselves, Oleksandr Tymchyk clipping the post in the first half. Their pressure told shortly after the restart when Mykola Shaparenko steered home after being picked out by Zinchenko.
And with 10 minutes to go, substitute Roman Yaremchuk turned the game on its head with an outstanding finish, controlling Shaparenko’s lofted pass before tucking home, to complete the comeback.
AdvertisementGettyTHE MVP
Mykola Shaparenka: A goal and an assist from the Dynamo Kyiv midfielder, who stepped up when Ukraine needed someone – anyone – to do exactly that.
THE BIG LOSER
Francesco Calzona: It's hard to be too harsh on the Slovakia coach, but the Italian might have some regrets as he watched his side sit deep after going ahead. It seemed as though Calzona was content to hold on for a point, which ultimately cost him and his players.
WHAT COMES NEXT?
Slovakia, the lowest-ranked team in Group E, face Romania next and are still in with a chance of reaching the knockout rounds. Likewise Ukraine, who reignited their campaign and face Belgium on Wednesday.