Euro 2024: De Bruyne's Belgium plays Ukraine in a Group E too close to call
STUTTGART, Germany (AP) — Belgium plays Ukraine on Wednesday with all to play for in Group E at the European Championship. With all teams in the group on three points after two games, only goal difference separates top to bottom. Kickoff is at 9 p.m. local (1900 GMT) in Stuttgart. Here’s what to know about the match:
Match facts
— Belgium got its campaign up and running with a 2-0 win against Romania after being shocked by Slovakia in its opening game.
— The No. 3-ranked team in the world is second in the group on goal difference going into the last round of fixtures.
— Ukraine suffered a 3-0 defeat to Romania in its opening game, but responded by beating Slovakia 2-1.
— Both teams know a win will be enough to guarantee their place in the round of 16.
Team news
— Axel Witsel has missed both of Belgium's games so far and didn't even travel with the team for the game against Romania.
— Vitaliy Mykolenko has trained after missing Ukraine’s opening two games. Viktor Tsygankov will be assessed after missing the Slovakia game.
By the numbers
— This is the first time Belgium and Ukraine have met in international soccer.
— Romelu Lukaku is Belgium’s all-time leading scorer with 85, but he is still to get off the mark at these Euros after having three goals ruled out by VAR.
— Ukraine has advanced to the knockout stage of a Euros once in three previous attempts, reaching the quarterfinals three years ago.
— Ukraine's Andriy Yarmolenko is playing in his fourth Euros at the age of 34.
What they’re saying
— "They (Ukraine) have given everyone a hard time, even teams like England, Italy and against Germany. They can compete at a high level with any side.” — Belgium coach Domenico Tedesco.
— “Before our group started, everyone knew Belgium were the favorites. In this competition, everything is possible.” — Ukraine coach Serhiy Rebrov.
— “For the team, going through would mean that we’ve accomplished our main mission. What it will mean for the country is that we’ll go on with our fairy tale for a few more days. For Ukrainians, every game means a lot.” — Ukraine midfielder Serhiy Sydorchuk.
— ”(Ukraine) have a situation in their country which isn’t easy. They have their hearts set on making their fans and their nation very happy. They will give their all, just like we will.” — Belgium defender Arthur Theate.
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AP Euro 2024: https://apnews.com/hub/euro-2024
