The Euro 2024 group stage brings a thrilling encounter between Romania and Ukraine. This matchup holds significant importance for both teams as they aim to start their campaigns on a high note.
Let's delve into the prediction, team form, news, and possible lineups for this exciting clash.
Romania's Resurgence
Romania enters Euro 2024 with renewed optimism, having topped their qualifying group unbeaten.
This achievement marked their return to the European Championship for the first time since 2016. Under the guidance of Edward Iordanescu, the team has shown significant improvement, particularly in defence, conceding only five goals in the qualifiers.
However, their historical performance at Euros has been underwhelming, with only one win in 16 matches.
Ukraine's Determination
Ukraine, making their fourth consecutive appearance at the European Championship, are eager to make a positive impact.
Despite a challenging qualification process where they finished behind England and Italy, Ukraine secured their place through the playoffs.
Managed by Serhiy Rebrov, the team aims to lift the spirits of their nation amidst ongoing challenges.
Ukraine's recent form has been mixed, but a convincing 4-0 victory over Moldova showcased their potential.
Team News and Lineups
Romania
Romania's squad faces minor fitness concerns, but key players are expected to be available.
Left-back Nicusor Bancu has recovered from a recent knock, while the attack will likely see competition between Denis Alibec, George Puscas, and Denis Dragus for the striker role.
Experienced midfielder Nicolae Stanciu is set to start, and the defensive pairing of Radu Dragusin and Burca will be crucial.
Probable Starting XI: Nita; Ratiu, Dragusin, Burca, Bancu; M. Marin, R. Marin; Man, Stanciu, Mihaila; Dragus
Ukraine
Ukraine will be without left-back Vitaliy Mykolenko due to an ankle injury. Arsenal's versatile Oleksandr Zinchenko is expected to fill this gap.
The attacking trio is likely to feature Viktor Tsygankov, Artem Dovbyk, and Mykhailo Mudryk, with Heorhiy Sudakov playing an advanced midfield role.
Probable Starting XI: Lunin; Konoplya, Zabarnyi, Matviyenko, Zinchenko; Shaparenko, Stepanenko, Sudakov; Tsygankov, Dovbyk, Mudryk
Prediction
While Romania boasts a solid defensive record, their struggle to find the back of the net might hinder their progress.
Ukraine, on the other hand, has shown they can deliver crucial goals. With a slightly stronger attacking lineup, Ukraine is poised to edge out Romania in a tightly contested match.
Romania 
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