As the World Cup Qualifying campaign intensifies, Ukraine faces Iceland at Stadion Miejski in Poland. This match is crucial for both teams as they aim to secure a playoff spot for the upcoming tournament.
Match Preview: Ukraine vs Iceland
Ukraine’s recent form saw an unbeaten streak of three matches end dramatically against France. They suffered a heavy loss at Parc des Princes, where Kylian Mbappe scored twice, pushing his career goal tally to 400. This defeat puts Ukraine in a precarious position, sitting third in Group D with only one match remaining.
For Ukraine, a win is paramount. They previously triumphed over Iceland in their last encounter, winning 5-3. The Blue and Yellows will be eager to replicate that performance to keep their World Cup aspirations alive.
Iceland’s Resurgence
Iceland comes into this match with renewed confidence after defeating Azerbaijan in their previous qualifier. This victory marked their first competitive away win since the UEFA Nations League in November 2024. Albert Gudmundsson and Sverrir Ingi Ingason scored for Iceland, solidifying their standing in the group.
With 13 goals scored across five matches, Iceland boasts one of the best attacking records in Group D, equating their performance with that of France. They will look to maintain this momentum against Ukraine.
Team News and Lineups
Ukraine
- Key player Artem Dovbyk is sidelined with a hip injury.
- Arseniy Batahov also misses the match due to a muscular problem.
- Possible lineup: Trubin; Karavaev, Zabarnyi, Svatok, Mykhavko, Mykhaylychenko; Ocheretko, Yarmoliuk, Nazaryna; Hutsuliak, Yaremchuk.
Iceland
- Iceland continues with a solid defensive lineup featuring Daniel Gretarsson and Ignacio.
- Hakon Arnar Haraldsson is expected to play a deeper midfield role.
- Possible lineup: Olafsson; Palsson, Ingason, Gretarsson, Ellertsson; Haraldsson, Johanesson, J Gudmundsson, A Gudmundsson, Hlynsson; Gudjohnsen.
Match Predictions
With Ukraine desperately needing a win, experts predict a closely-fought match. Iceland, on the other hand, may aim for a draw to secure their playoff hopes. The anticipated scoreline is a 1-1 draw, reflecting both teams’ needs and recent performances.
This match promises to be a riveting encounter as Ukraine and Iceland battle for their World Cup futures. Both teams will be looking to take decisive steps towards qualification.
