Sheva books Ukraine’s spot
Ukraine have recovered from the opening day hammering at the hands of Spain to qualify for the knock out stages of the World Cup Finals, completing their redemption with a 1-0 victory over Tunisia in Berlin.
A penalty from AC Milan stirker Andriy Shevchenko proved the difference and the only highlight in a thoroughly dull affair.
The manner in which the Ukrainian superstar won the penalty will not have people queuing to join his already bulging fan club.
After winning the ball in the box, the Chelsea bound player attempted to round the keeper but on realizing his angle was rapidly diminishing chose to crumble in a heap.
Some call it clever football, others accurately describe it as cheating.
Referee Carlos Amarilla was conned though and pointed to the spot.
The Tunisians were unlucky not to have a penalty themselves when striker Andriy Voronin handled a free kick just minutes earlier but the offence went unpunished.
The match started badly for the Carthage Eagles after they had star striker Zied Jaziri booked for a comical dive just seven minutes into the first half.
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Jaziri starts the walk of shame |
The Troyes striker got an early mark just before the break when a clumsy challenge had him leaving the field minutes before the rest of the players.
Sadly for the spectators the others returned.
Roger Lemerre’s men can have little complaint for failing to win their first game at the tournament after they were only able to muster three shots on goal in the match.
Ukraine will play either South Korea, Switzerland or France in their next match, however Oleg Blokhin’s men will have to do it without defenders Andriy Rusol and Vyacheslav Sviderskyi who earned suspensions for bookings.