Since breaking from the former Soviet Union, Ukraine have had two failed attempts to reach the World Cup finals. Third time lucky some might say as they did well this time to come through a difficult qualifying group. Each previous attempt had ended following a play-off so they made sure of their entry for Germany 2006 by finshing top of their group. They came through with only one defeat and good results against Greece and an impressive 3-0 win away to Turkey.
With one of the most formidable strikers in the World in their squad, Andriy Shevchenko, Ukraine cannot be taken lightly despite this being their first finals and they will challenge hard for top spot in the opening groups stage. [Latest Ukraine Squad News]