Spain Versus Ukraine World Cup Preview

Leipzig June 14, 2006 - Spain/Ukraine

My Pick: Spain

European underachievers Spain face Ukraine in what is expected to be the decider of who tops group H, considered by pundits as the easiest group to qualify from.

By looking at the big names in the Spanish squad, one would foresee an easy win for the Spaniards. But Luis Aragones's team have been perennial underachievers and you have to think twice given their recent performances in major events.

Spain are blessed with an abundance of talent,ranging from Iker Casillas in goal to Fernando Torres upfront. Raul's position upfront is under threat from the prolific David Villa, especially given the indifferent, injury prone season that the Real Madrid forward has had. He also suffered training knocks on Sunday, but it is hoped that he will be fine in time for the game in Eastern Germany, in Leipzig. Spain do have two prolific goal scorers in young Torres and David Villa. Their midfield, especially Xabi Alonso can score screamers from long range. Luis Garcia is expected to play a more attacking role, with Xavi and Albelda lending solidity to the midfield.

Ukraine - Coached by the legendary Oleg Blokhin, Ukraine topped their group which consisted of last edition semifinalists, Turkey and European champions Greece. They have been pretty impressive in their runup to Germany. Most of Ukraine's hopes will be pinned on the shoulders of Andrei Shevchenko, who has recently transferred to Chelsea. There are still doubts over his fitness and if he does not play, they will be looking forward to the two V's - Voronin and Vorobey and Tymoschuk for inspiration. Most of the Ukranian side ply their trade in Ukraine and Russia and therefore would be unknown faces to many people, including their opponents.

My verdict:
Spain should and really should win this, especially if Shevchenko does not play.



© 2003 - 2024 Online Sports Betting, All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy | Terms of Use