Germany v Ukraine. Valeri Karpin’s prediction

This looks like an interesting game. Germany are the world champions, they are also one of the favourites at these European Championships, as well. But their performances during the qualifying stages, not to mention in recent warm-up games, haven’t shown them in the best light, and they certainly don’t look invincible. They lost points, conceded a lot of goals, or at least a lot for the team who’re world champions. However, the tournament starting should spark a higher level of motivation from this side and we should now see better from Germany, but if they are to do anything at these finals then better is what they will need.

Ukraine are a team that can’t be underestimated. They will try to remain compact and hit sides on the counter, a tactic that could be very useful against an attacking side like Germany. Ukraine also have some exciting players in attack, Yarmolenko and Konoplyanka are two players who can cause plenty of trouble. No team will get an easy win against them. They’ve have got plenty of attacking oomph, and I’m sure they will have enough opportunities to score a goal, especially given the fact that Germany’s key central defender has a calf injury and is likely to miss the game.

In terms of composition and experience The Germans surpass not only the national team of Ukraine, but also the majority of teams at the Euros. They are so often a major force at these finals and with the quality in their squad they should enough to come through this first test, although if Ukraine are at their best they can certainly threaten the Germans. With this in mind, BTTS and Germany to win is the way to go.