As Georgia faces Ukraine in a key UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying match this Saturday, both teams come into the clash with their own set of challenges and aspirations. The Georgians, fresh off their impressive performances in the tournament earlier this year, are hoping to bounce back after recent setbacks. Meanwhile, Ukraine, despite boasting a talented squad, has often been a shadow of the team many had hoped for. Here’s what to expect from this upcoming encounter.
Georgia’s Rise and Fall
Georgia’s national team, under the guidance of former France international Willy Sagnol, had shown flashes of brilliance earlier in the UEFA Euro 2024 campaign. Players like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Zuriko Davitashvili, and Giorgi Chakvetadze have been key to Georgia’s tactical approach, showcasing impressive technical ability and flair on the field. The team’s rise in the rankings was hard-earned, and many thought they might be poised for even greater success.
However, the momentum stalled during the October international break. The Georgians suffered back-to-back losses, including a 1-0 defeat to Ukraine that effectively dashed their hopes of promotion to League C. The losses highlighted a few gaps in their game, particularly in the final third, and left Sagnol and his squad searching for answers. With no injury concerns ahead of this match, Georgia will be eager to get back on track with a fully fit squad.
Key Players to Watch
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – Known for his skill and creativity, the Napoli star will be Georgia’s main attacking threat.
- Giorgi Mamardashvili – The goalkeeper has proven his worth with several strong performances and will play a crucial role in keeping Ukraine at bay.
Predicted Starting XI (3-5-2)
- Goalkeeper: Mamardashvili
- Defenders: Gvelesaini, Kashia, Dvali
- Midfielders: Kakabadze, Kochorashvili, Kiteishvili, Chakvetadze, Lochoshvili
- Forwards: Kvaratskhelia, Mikautadze
Ukraine’s Struggles Despite Star Power
Despite having what many refer to as a “golden generation” of players, Ukraine has consistently underperformed on the international stage. The team’s star-studded roster includes names like Mykhailo Mudryk, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Roman Yaremchuk, yet they were eliminated early in Euro 2024, much to the disappointment of fans.
Under manager Serhiy Rebrov, who took over after a period of uncertainty, Ukraine has shifted its approach to a more pragmatic style. While the results have improved, they still lack the kind of dynamism expected from a team with such talented individuals. Their 1-0 victory over Georgia last month was a testament to their defensive solidity but also highlighted their struggle to break down opposition.
The Key Absence
- Viktor Buyalskiy – The defensive midfielder is doubtful for this match due to an injury concern. His absence could affect Ukraine’s balance in midfield, making them more vulnerable defensively.
Predicted Starting XI (4-1-4-1)
- Goalkeeper: Trubin
- Defenders: Konoplya, Zabarnyi, Talovierov, Matvyenko
- Midfielders: Kalyuzhnyi, Hutsulyak, Shaparenko, Sudakov, Mudryk
- Forward: Dovbyk
Tactical Battle: A Clash of Styles
When these two sides met last month, the match was tightly contested, with Ukraine edging out Georgia 1-0. Ukraine’s defensive setup was disciplined, with a clear focus on limiting space for Georgia’s attacking threats. The Georgians, despite their attacking prowess, struggled to break through the Ukrainian defense, highlighting their vulnerability when faced with a compact, counter-attacking side.
This pattern is likely to repeat in the upcoming match. Georgia will look to dominate possession and break down Ukraine’s defense with their technical midfielders and wide play. However, Ukraine is likely to adopt a more cautious approach, sitting deep and waiting for opportunities on the counter.
- Georgia’s Strengths: Strong technical players, a fluid attacking system, and home advantage.
- Ukraine’s Strengths: Defensive solidity, a well-drilled midfield, and experience in managing tight games.
Key Matchup: Midfield Battle
Both teams will need to control the midfield if they are to impose their game plan. Georgia’s midfielders, such as Kochorashvili and Kiteishvili, are crucial in driving the team forward, while Ukraine’s Shaparenko and Sudakov will look to disrupt play and limit Georgia’s attacking flow.
Final Prediction: Low-Scoring Affair Likely
With both teams focused on maintaining defensive shape, it’s expected to be a tight encounter. While Georgia has the attacking talent to break down defenses, Ukraine’s pragmatic approach could frustrate them, leading to a game with fewer goals. Given the attacking threats and defensive solidity on both sides, a low-scoring affair seems most likely.
Prediction: Under 3.5 Goals
This game will likely feature a lot of tactical nuance but limited goal-scoring opportunities.
