England draw with Ukraine to stay on course for Euro 2024 qualification

England are a step closer to sealing Euro 2024 qualification despite surrendering their 100% record in Group C following a 1-1 draw against Ukraine.

Gareth Southgate sticks with the old guard

Oleksandr Zinchenko scored an emotional opening goal for the home team, who were forced to stage the game in Poland, before his former Manchester City teammate Kyle Walker netted a vital equaliser shortly before half-time.

Gareth Southgate, as anticipated, stuck with the old guard of Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson in the spine of a team that was missing the likes of John Stones and Jack Grealish.

England dominate possession in early stages

England dominated possession in the early stages, but a blocked shot from two-time Player of the Year Bukayo Saka aside, the visitors were largely kept at arm’s length.

Having weathered the early pressure, Ukraine began to show more ambition and were immediately rewarded for showing more endeavour when Arsenal’s Zinchenko capped a flowing move to put his side ahead in the 26th minute.

Walker nets first England goal

Southgate’s side responded immediately and could have equalised instantly had Henderson opted to shoot when he was located inside the penalty area by Harry Kane’s astute pass, rather than squander possession by attempting to tee up James Maddison.

A largely frustrating half ended on a high for the Three Lions, however, when