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.
