Ukraine vs Scotland Prediction & Tips
After five thrilling rounds of UEFA Nations League (UNL) Group B1 action, it all comes down to this clash of Ukraine and Scotland to decide who will participate in UNL League A in 2024/25. Ukraine are not in the lead despite a 5-0 win over Armenia in their previous outing, with the war-torn country needing nothing less than a win to complete their fairytale and gain promotion, but with this fixture taking place in Poland, any home advantage will be lost.
Ukraine have been in good form since their return to official action in June (G4, E1, P2), although they will be wary as their two defeats were against UK countries. One was a demoralizing 1-0 World Cup qualifying loss to Wales, and the other was a 3-0 humiliation by Scotland a week ago. Although as a “home” side, Ukraine could feel somewhat confident of gaining promotion despite winning five of their last seven UNL matches in that capacity.
For Scotland the mission is a little simpler on paper as they must avoid defeat to secure their place in the A League in the next edition of the UNL. Having started their UNL journey in League C after the inaugural edition, two promotions in three seasons would mark a big improvement for Scotland, but having already lost a very important World Cup qualifier against Ukraine this year (3-1), they will not feel that their promotion is assured.
Three consecutive wins at UNL have Steve Clarke’s side in good form, and also support the words of Scotland midfielder Callum McGregor, who said the team is getting better at keeping their nerve in big games. While only a draw is needed for Scotland to secure promotion in this match, it is something they have failed to achieve in their away appearances at UNL (G3, P4), and with each of those defeats being to countries ranked above Scotland in the FIFA rankings (#45), taking on Ukraine (#27) looks to be a bigger challenge than it appears.
Players to watch: Scoring the last goal of the game in each of the five games in which he scored for Ukraine, Artem Dovbyk could be a man to watch. Ryan Christie was Scotland’s hero with the winning goal and an assist against Ireland, but three of his five international goals have opened the scoring in their respective games.
Key stat: Scotland has conceded the first goal in five consecutive away games at UNL.
Ukraine – Scotland FREE TIPS
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