World Cup 2014 play-off: Ukraine v France match preview
A look ahead to tonight’s World Cup play-off at the Olympic Stadium
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.France will travel to Kiev knowing they face the tough task of scoring against the Ukraine side, who have gone seven games without conceding a goal. Didier Deschamp’s men have come out on top in recent meetings between the two sides.
Mikhail Fomenko, who took charge in December 2012, will be looking to Andriy Yarmolenko to add to his four goals already in the competition as he looks to take his country to the World Cup for only the second time in 16 years.
KICK-OFF: Friday, 9.45pm
PAST THREE MEETINGS…
Ukraine 0 France 2 (Menez, Cabaye), European Championship, June 2012
Ukraine 1 (Tymoschuk) France 4 (Gameiro, Martin, Kaboul), International, June 2011
Ukraine 2 (Voronin, Schevchenko) France 2 (Henry, Govou), European Championship, November 2007
STATS…
Ukraine have kept seven successive clean sheets.
Ukraine have scored 20 times in their last six games.
France are unbeaten in 7 games against Ukraine.
ODDS…
Ukraine to win: 3.4
France to win: 2.46
Draw: 3.25
CLASSIC MATCH...
France took on co-hosts Ukraine at Euro 2012, winning 2-0, but it was remembered for the stoppage in play due to heavy rain. Both sides were forced off by the fourth minute due to a heavy downpour and lightning overhead meant the official had little option but to haul the players off the pitch.
TV: British Eurosport, 8:15am
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments