Ukraine clinched a place in the playoffs for next year’s World Cup after defeating Group D rivals Iceland 2-0 in a decisive clash on Sunday.
Heading into the match, both sides were level on points, but Ukraine needed a win to secure second place behind group winners France, as Iceland held a superior goal difference.
Midfielder Oleksandr Zubkov broke the deadlock in the 83rd minute, scoring his first international goal in three years with a powerful header off the far post after a corner was flicked on by Oleksii Hutsuliak. Just minutes later, Hutsuliak sealed the victory with a deflected effort in stoppage time, ensuring Ukraine’s progression.
Earlier, Ukraine came close to scoring when Viktor Tsygankov’s long-range strike rattled the crossbar in the 24th minute, while Iceland goalkeeper Elias Olafsson produced a string of saves, including a crucial stop against Vladyslav Vanat. Olafsson also denied Hutsuliak twice from close range in the 82nd minute before Ukraine finally broke through.
The result capped an intense second half dominated by Ukraine’s relentless attack, ultimately rewarded with two late goals that booked their playoff berth.
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