As Ukraine prepares to face France in a high-stakes international clash, attention turns to the team’s starting lineup, with Paris Saint-Germain defender Illia Zabarnyi predicted to earn a spot in the backline. The anticipated XI highlights key tactical choices that could shape Ukraine’s approach against one of Europe’s football powerhouses. With stakes high and expectations mounting, this preview examines the players poised to take the field and the potential impact Zabarnyi’s inclusion may have on the match’s outcome.
Ukraine Predicted Starting XI to Face France PSG’s Illia Zabarnyi Set for Key Defensive Role
Manager Oleksandr Petrakov is expected to deploy a solid backline anchored by PSG defender Illia Zabarnyi, who will play a pivotal role in Ukraine’s defensive strategy against France. Zabarnyi’s presence provides much-needed stability and experience at the heart of defense, crucial for countering the French attack known for its pace and creativity. Alongside Zabarnyi, the defensive unit is likely to include key figures such as Mykola Matviyenko and Vitaliy Mykolenko, who will contribute defensive resilience as well as provide support going forward.
The midfield and attack will focus on balancing defensive duties with swift, counter-attacking opportunities. Veteran midfielder Taras Stepanenko is tipped to marshal the midfield alongside young talents like Mykhailo Mudryk, whose pace and directness can exploit any gaps left by the French side. Upfront, Andriy Yarmolenko’s experience will be vital in leading Ukraine’s offensive efforts. Below is a predicted starting XI that combines youth and experience, with Zabarnyi’s crucial defensive role highlighted:
| Position | Player Name | Club | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Heorhiy Bushchan | Shakhtar Donetsk | |||||||||||
| Right Back | Mykola Matviyenko | Shakhtar Donetsk | |||||||||||
| Centre Back | Illia Zabarnyi | Paris Saint-Germain | |||||||||||
| Centre Back | Vitaliy Mykolenko | Lazio | |||||||||||
| Left Back | Oleksandr Syrota | Dynamo Kyiv | |||||||||||
| Defensive Midfield | Taras Stepanenko | Shakhtar Donetsk | |||||||||||
| Central Midfield | Mykhailo Mudryk | Chelsea | |||||||||||
| Right Wing | Tactical Analysis of Ukraine’s Lineup Against France Recommendations for Strengthening Midfield Control
Ukraine’s predicted lineup against France highlights a clear intent to fortify the defensive midfield area by starting PSG’s Illia Zabarnyi, whose composed ball retention and tactical awareness will be crucial in disrupting France’s rhythm. The current setup emphasizes a compact midfield block with Zabarnyi operating alongside Taras Stepanenko, aiming to mitigate the creative influence of Kylian Mbappé and Aurélien Tchouaméni. However, Ukraine’s midfield still faces significant challenges in maintaining possession and initiating quick transitions, which will require cohesive pressing and sharper passing angles to outmaneuver France’s dynamic midfield trio. To enhance control in the midfield, Ukraine could consider deploying a more staggered midfield diamond or a 4-3-3 formation that allows for better spatial coverage and vertical link-up play. Recommendations include:
Future OutlookAs Ukraine prepares to face France in their highly anticipated encounter, the predicted starting lineup featuring PSG’s Illia Zabarnyi highlights the blend of youth and experience coach Oleksandr Petrakov is expected to deploy. With Zabarnyi’s defensive skills set to be tested against one of Europe’s most formidable attacking sides, all eyes will be on how Ukraine’s XI shapes up to challenge the reigning World Cup champions. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as both teams vie for supremacy in what promises to be a compelling showdown. 
Miles Cooper
A journalism entrepreneur launching a new media platform. Related Posts
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