Ukraine predicted lineup vs Austria - Euro 2020
By Max Cooper
If you'd offered Ukraine supporters the tantalising prospect of sitting second in Group C with one game to go, they'd have probably bitten your hands off.
Andriy Shevchenko's side have performed admirably in their opening two clashes, pushing a free-scoring Netherlands all the way in a 3-2 loss, and doing enough to edge beyond a plucky North Macedonia, who played like an underdog with nothing to lose.
Job done up until now, then.
Ukraine are one game away from the knockout rounds, but they must pick up a positive result against third-placed Austria. Current goal difference dictates that a draw will be enough for Shevchenko's army, but going into a Euro 2020 decider with that mentality is a dangerous mindset.
They're going to aim for the win against Das Team, but which starting lineup should the Ukraine coach pick?
1. Goalkeeper & defenders
Heorhiy Bushchan (GK) - This guy was superb against North Macedonia. Bushchan made an incredible save which unfortunately led to a penalty, stopped the spot-kick only for Gianni Alioski to score the rebound. Deserved better luck.
Oleksandr Karavayev (RB) - An experienced head in a young backline. His years of knowledge are priceless to the success and organisation of this rearguard.
Illya Zabarnyi (CB) - Only 18 years of age, but a seriously exciting prospect. Zabarnyi is one to keep an eye on against Austria on Monday.
Mykola Matviyenko (CB) - Probably the big name in the backline, tipped for a big move, too. Matviyenko could boost his profile even further with a win and a clean sheet here.
Vitaliy Mykolenko (LB) - Dynamo Kyiv starlet Mykolenko is only 22 years old, but he's settled onto the European stage comfortably. Time to see what all the fuss is about.
2. Midfielders
Mykola Shaparenko (CM) - The youngster bagged four goals for FC Dynamo Kyiv last season, and he'll be hoping to add to that on the international stage.
Taras Stepanenko (CM) - A tough, physical presence in the middle of the pitch. He'll be glad David Alaba is starting in defence rather than as a direct rival in midfield.
Oleksandr Zinchenko (CM) - The Manchester City man can do a bit of everything for Ukraine, and usually does. He'll start in midfield, a role we see less often at the Etihad.
3. Forwards
Andriy Yarmolenko (RW) - The BTEC Arjen Robben. Let him cut in on that left foot, and he might just hammer a thunderbolt into the far corner. No stopping him - sometimes. Let's hope Yarmolenko's blowing hot against Austria.
Roman Yaremchuk (ST) - A goal for Yaremchuk against North Macedonia was just what the doctor ordered. He's ready for more, so look out, Austria.
Ruslan Malinovskyi (LW) - The Atalanta man with the thunderous left peg fluffed his lines against North Macedonia by missing a penalty, so he'll be aiming for revenge next time out.