Slovakia vs Ukraine Predictions

• Slovakia managed four shots on target against Belgium, while Ukraine managed only two against a much less talented Romania side
• The Falcons won the last meeting between this pair 4-1
• Juraj Kucka is the top scorer in the Slovakia squad with 14 goals

Falcons fancied to spread wings again

Slovakia will be riding the high of their shock victory over Belgium – a result which marks statistically the biggest upset in the history of the European Championship as there were 45 places between the Falcons and Red Devils in the Fifa world rankings heading into the game – and they could build on that momentum against Ukraine. 

Ivan Schranz was the Falcons’ hero on matchday one as he squeezed his shot past Koen Casteels to give his side an early lead which they expertly defended for the next 83 minutes – two disallowed Romelu Lukaku goals aside. 

And that resolute nature could hold them in good stead against Ukraine, who failed to score as they themselves became victims of a shock result when losing 3-0 to Romania on Monday. 

Ukraine unlikely to turn things around so soon

Serhiy Rebrov’s men dominated the possession against Romania but could only muster up two shots on target, so it is surprising to see them come into Friday’s clash as favourites – especially as Slovakia managed four shots on target against a far more talented Belgium side. 

While the Blue and Yellows’ defeat to Romania was definitely a shock, it perhaps shouldn’t have been met with complete surprise given that Rebrov’s men had lost 3-1 to an ageing and uninspiring Poland just ten days earlier. 

The Falcons were impressive defensively throughout their 1-0 win over Belgium and they ran out 4-1 victors last time they faced Ukraine. While the result may not be so convincing this time around, they look a big price to win and the 7/10 about the double chance – a draw would all-but see Slovakia qualify for the last 16 – looks too good to ignore. 

Kucka could help Slovakia land the points

Anything more than another 1-0 victory would likely prove beyond Slovakia though, as none of their front three are particularly prolific. Robert Bozenik is a decent target man but managed only one goal in qualifying, while Monday’s hero Schranz scored zero and Lukas Haraslin top scored with just three strikes. 

Their defence, however, could stand firm once more. David Hancko in particular was exceptional against the Red Devils and he could frustrate Artem Dovbyk and co on Friday. 

If Ukraine’s loss to Romania is anything to go by, then the prices about the Falcons’ midfielders getting on the scoresheet are far too big. Two of the Tricolours three goals on Monday came from outside the box, so it seems likely Slovakia will try their luck from range against Andriy Lunin. 

Juraj Kucka is Slovakia’s leading scorer in their squad and he could fire a few long-range efforts at goal on Friday.