Euro 2016 Recap: Germany Vs Ukraine

Fulltime: Germany 2-0 Ukraine

Mustafi (GER) 19'
Schweinsteiger 90+2'

The current world champions debut the at Euro 2016 against their strongest adversary in the group. This is marquee game of the third day. Germany versus Ukraine at the Stade Pierre Mauroy in Lille. The cup holders come into the tournament as clear favourites; as I stated in my preview. A combination of experience and youth, rolled into a well-oiled football machine. Testing their mettle first are the bull-strong men in yellow and blue.

As expected, Germany didn't waste any time in order to stamp their superiority. But, Ukraine stood firm as best as they could; they showed no fear. But, a 19th minute goal from Shkodran Mustafi broke that resolve. A perfect freekick found its way to the defender's head, and went straight to the goal.

Sami Khedira, Mezut Ozil, and Thomas Muller took control of the middle and dictated the tempo. Die Mannschaft also employed a choking defense that stymied every attempt to puncture through their territory. Jerome Boateng had a memorable goal line save when goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer was beaten. He was also called to make two decent saves as the counter-attacking rivals took advantage of their opportunities towards the end of the half.

Germany turned up the heat after the break. Toni Kroos, Julian Draxler, and Khedira all had a go each that required Ukraine keeper, Andriy Piyatov to intervene. Even substitute Andre Schurrle had a couple of chances at goal. A swift counter-attack deep in injury time resulted in a deathblow to the game. Ozil flew up-field and issued a dream of a cross to a waiting Bastian Schweinsteiger. The Manchester United midfielder made no mistake with his half-volley.

The Bad Tackle

There are very few flaws in the German team. They mesmerized their opponents with perpetual movement and passing. Joachim Low's side is still the team to beat. And, managers who watched the game better come up with something special if they covet the title of European Champions.

The only thing that needs improvement would be in defense. Ukraine rattled the German backline with their counter-attacks. A faster and better drilled team could cause them more problems.

Ukraine stood firm and played to their optimum. Their opponents just had more quality. Yevhen Konoplyanka, Artem Fedetskiy, and captain Vyacheslav Shevchuc provided constant pressure. But, they should do more if they are to go further in the competition.