Ukraine beat Scotland 2-1 in an emotional game at Hampden Park to qualify for the World Cup play-off final to face Wales.
There were some touching scenes at Hampden Park as Ukraine played their first competitive game since Russia’s invasion of their country began earlier this year.
They were greeted by a raptuous applause from the whole stadium – including the Scotland fans – as they came out for their warm up before the game.
And that may have played a part in Ukraine having multiple good chances within the opening half an hour.
A ball in from the right was flicked on and, after Viktor Tsygankov connected with a right-footed strike, the experienced Craig Gordan sprung to his right and tipped the ball over the bar.
The ‘keeper was at it again when John McGinn’s tackle fell to Andriy Yarmolenko and, despite the goal being at his mercy, Gordon smothered the strike and grabbed it on the line.
And the visitors took the lead soon after, when a ball was pinged over the top, Yarmolenko brung the ball down, and lifted it over Gordon from the edge of the box.
McGinn had an incredible chance to pull one back with 20 minutes to go but, despite being the one who always seems to scores for the hosts, missed a sitter.
Scott McTominay was played in down the right by Ryan Christie and, after he rifled the ball at goal, McGinn got on the end of the rebound but, with the whole goal to aim at with six yards out, he put it wide.
Scotland put the pressure on having pulled one back with ten minutes to play, but it left them exposed at the back and saw Ukraine put the game to bed with a third.
Artem Dovbyk ran through on goal and comfortably slotted it into the bottom corner, just before the full-time whistle was blown.
It was a deserved win for Ukraine and they will now face Wales in the World Cup play-off final on Sunday.
Source: Talk Sport