Hopes high for Ukraine at Euro 2024 but thoughts remain at home
Ukraine have been touted as possible dark horses at Euro 2024 given their talented squad, but their presence alone remains remarkable given the ongoing war back home.
Legendary forward and Ukraine Football Association president Andriy Shevchenko has today been highlighting the impact of the war.
Shevchenko has taken part in the unveiling of an installation in Munich which features damaged seats from the Sonyachny stadium in Kharkiv.
The stadium had been built for Euro 2012 but has been damaged by Russian shelling in the war.
Shevchenko was pictured with children holding a sign reading 'My national team is as invincible as my country'.
Fans attending the match are also able to wear virtual reality glasses showing the Sonyachny stadium.
Romania fans soaking in the pre-match atmosphere
Looks like a glorious day in Munich with fans making their way to the Allianz Arena in the sunshine.
Romania fans certainly look to be soaking it all up ahead of their team's return to an international tournament.
Their last appearance at a major finals came at Euro 2016, where it is fair to say their impact was limited.
Romania finished bottom of their group with just one point. Both of their goals also came from the penalty spot.
They will be hoping for much better this time around.
Good afternoon!
It is all eyes on Munich for the first match of the day at Euro 2024 as Romania and Ukraine get the ball rolling in Group E.
With Belgium and Slovakia completing the group line-up it should be a very open tussle to see which teams advance to the knock-out stage.
Romania and Ukraine will be keen to get off to the perfect start this afternoon.
Stay with us for all the team news and updates from the 2pm kick off.
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Hopes high for Ukraine at Euro 2024 but thoughts remain at home