“France nabs a win against Ukraine despite torrential downpour”

Ukraine 0:2 France

(53' Ménez), (56' Cabaye)

What a match! Six minutes into the first half the match was delayed due to thunderstorms and a torrential downpour. An hour later, just as everyone was beginning to fear that the match would be canceled, play was resumed. Though France struggled to make solid plays in the box, they came into their true form during the second half, scoring two goals to secure their win as well as put them at the top of Group D.

Once the game resumed, the first half of the match proved entertaining despite the lack of goals scored. France kept the ball in Ukraine's side of the field, putting the pressure on their defense. However, France struggled to produce any quality opportunities. They would get the ball in the box, and it would seem like they were about to launch a great attack, but then Ukraine's defense would kick it away or someone would miss a great pass. Real Madrid's Karim Benzema seemed hungry for a goal and he almost got one, but his shot was blocked by the keeper. Ukraine did test French keeper and team captain, Hugo Lloris.  Ukrainian captain Shevchenko fired a shot at Lloris, who expertly saved it. The half ended with both teams at zero goals each.

 

Once the second half began France really pulled their act together. Not even ten minutes into the second half, they scored their first goal. Ribéry sprinted up the midfield, passed the ball to Benzema, who sent a beautiful pass to Jérémy Ménez at the top right hand corner of the box. Ménez beat out the Ukrainian defender with a simple fake to the right, a quick touch to the left, followed by a great low shot that went right between the keeper's hands and the right post for a goal.

Less than five minutes after, France bagged another one. Benzema had yet another assist, he received a pass outside of the box, and expertly dribbled around a defender before sending a great pass to Yohan Cabaye, who successfully scored a second goal for Les Bleus. Though looking a little dull against England, Benzema looked much more lively this time around, leading the French offense to success.

Though Ukraine attempted to fight back and equalize, Les Bleus held off their efforts and the game ended in favor of the French at 2-0. France couldn't have been more pleased with this match, they now lead their group and their chances of advancing are very probable. They play Sweden next for their final match in the group stage. 

written by Donais Deetz