Zinchenko: Ukraine must play best game of our lives to beat England

Oleksandr Zinchenko has said Ukraine will have to play the best game of their life if they hope to beat England on Saturday in their Euro 2020 quarter-final clash.

Zinchenko certainly knows the England squad, having been at Manchester City since 2016.

And, knowing England have yet to concede a goal in this tournament, he says his side will be underdogs as they seek to carve out a place in the semi-finals.

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“England have played very well in defense – but there are no perfect teams,” Zinchenko said. “To pass we will have to play the best game of our life.”

His point has been echoed by manager Andriy Shevchenko, who believes they are one of the best English teams he has seen.

“England are one of the most balanced teams,” he said. “They have amazing players. It’s a team that plays more than football. English football is having one of the best times in history. Tomorrow will be the toughest game for us.

“It doesn’t help football”

Due to Covid restrictions, few Ukrainian or English supporters are expected to make the trip to Rome, where Saturday’s game will take place.

Prior to the Ukraine game, England’s four games had been played at Wembley Stadium in front of what was essentially a home crowd.

With few traveling supporters, the crowd will largely be home fans, and Shevchenko is hoping those in the stadium will choose to support his side.

“It doesn’t help football. But we are well aware of the Covid situation, “he said.

“We have a large Ukrainian community here in Italy. I invited and encouraged them to come to Stadio Olimpico.

“I am expecting Italian fans at the stadium and I hope they will support Ukraine. Ukraine deserves the sympathy of the supporters for the way we play.”

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