Euro 2012: Preview, Live Commentary and Recap as Ukraine Take on France

Euro 2012's first matchup of the day pits Ukraine against France. In their first match, Ukraine took home three points while France settled for the draw against England. Both teams desperately need the points to move on to the knockout stage. 

Get ready for live commentary, analysis and a recap of tomorrow's game at the Donbass Arena in Ukraine. 

11:30 AM, 6/14: With 24 and half hours before the match, here are my predictions. Unlike England, the Ukraine are not likely to park the bus behind the ball for the better part of the match and will attack the French defense. This means France will be able to take more shots on goal, and possibly score more goals. 

Ukraine have talent at the younger side of the age spectrum and the older side. Andriy Yarmolenko, a 22 year old from Dynamo Kiev, played excellently against Sweden. Quick, efficient passes allowed the Ukraine attack to move forward. On the other side of the age spectrum, sits Andrei Shevchenko. The 35 year old Ukraine captain scored two headers in their win against Sweden. 

With France boasting big name club players like Ribery, Nasri and Benzema, they also have Cabaye and Debuchy, who played arguably better than the ones previously mentioned. Ukraine have quite the task ahead of them. 

My Prediction: Ukraine win 2-1.

It is somewhat unlikely, but it is possible. If Ukraine can go ahead early and hold their lead, it will be a much easier win then their one against Sweden. If they let France score first, the French won't be so easy to steal the lead from.

What are your predictions? Leave them in the comment section below.

Check back later today and tomorrow for more predictions and preview.