Ukraine vs Belgium Euro 2024 Group E Preview

As the Euro 2024 group stage reaches its climax, Group E promises a thriller with all four teams locked on three points. Ukraine face Belgium in a decisive clash that will shape the fortunes of both teams. Set your reminders for 17:00 BST on Wednesday, June 26th, as these two sides battle for a spot in the last 16.

Belgium's campaign has been a tale of ups and downs. Domenico Tedesco’s men started with a surprise 1-0 loss to Slovakia but bounced back with a solid 2-0 win over Romania. Now, a draw will suffice for their progression, thanks to their positive goal difference. However, Tedesco is adamant that his team goes out to win.

"We can't start to calculate or speculate. We are going out to win the game," he stated confidently.

For Ukraine, the stakes are just as high. A win guarantees their spot in the knockouts for the second consecutive Euros. A draw leaves their fate dependent on the outcome of the Slovakia vs Romania game. Ukraine rebounded spectacularly from a 3-0 drubbing by Romania to snatch a 2-1 win against Slovakia, showing resilience and intent.

"We need to get into the same mindset we had at the end of the game against Slovakia," said head coach Serhiy Rebrov. "If we win, it’ll continue a fairytale for our country."

Ukraine: Everton left-back Vitaliy Mykolenko might make his Euro 2024 debut after recovering from an ankle injury. Anatoliy Trubin is expected to keep his place in goal.

Belgium: Axel Witsel and Thomas Meunier are doubtful, while Dodi Lukebakio is suspended. Koen Casteels is likely to continue in goal, with a back four featuring Timothy Castagne and Jan Vertonghen. Kevin De Bruyne is the lynchpin in midfield, and Romelu Lukaku leads the attack.

- Head-to-Head: This will be the first competitive meeting between Ukraine and Belgium.

- Belgium: Unbeaten in their last 22 first-time encounters (W13, D9). They haven’t lost a final group game in their last six major tournaments.

- Ukraine: All four of their Euro wins have come via 2-1 scorelines. They’ve never kept a clean sheet in 13 Euro matches.

With both teams desperate for a win and the stakes sky-high, expect a gripping encounter. Belgium’s experience and depth might just edge them past a spirited Ukraine.

Ukraine 1 - Belgium 2.