In the U21 UEFA Europa League Group B finale, Matador II Spain U21 take on Ukraine U21 in a battle for the top spot after both teams advanced from the group stage with two wins and no goals conceded. Spain U21 only need a draw to seal the first place in the group, and they are expected to play their best possession game and try not to concede any points to achieve their goal. Ukraine U21, on the other hand, has a solid defense but a weak offense, with three of their last four matches having a total of no more than two goals, so they may want to try the underdog tactic again. (Live on Now 630 Wednesday at 2:45 a.m.)
Spain U21, in keeping with the tradition of the Grande Dame's style of play, had a very high percentage of possession, but an average goal-scoring efficiency. In the match against the weak Romania U21, even with 75% of the possession, it was not until the second half that the deadlock was broken. In their last match against Croatia U21, Spain took the lead just 20 seconds into the game, but ended up winning only 1-0, highlighting their strategy of controlling the tempo and preserving their strength. Given that a draw with Spain will get them first place in the group, Spain U21 is more likely to adopt a conservative "filibuster" tactic to build up their strength for the knockout rounds.
On the other hand, Ukraine U21 failed to qualify for the final week in the last five editions of the tournament, but this year's tournament has been impressive with two wins in two matches. The Eastern European side played a pragmatic style of play, taking just 10 shots against Croatia in their first match, not even half as many as their opponents, but eventually winning 2-0. However, in the match against Romania, Ukraine's performance was not enough, until the last minute of the match, relying on the opponent's goal to win 1-0, its attacking and defending the weak qualities of the highlight. With their place in the tournament secured, Ukraine U21's motivation is in doubt and they are expected to struggle against Spain.
broadcast schedule
Wednesday 00:00 U21 Europa League Georgia U21 vs Netherlands U21
Wednesday 00:00 U21 Europa League Portugal U21 vs Belgium U21
Wednesday 2:45am U21 European Cup Romania U21 vs Croatia U21
Wednesday 2:45am U21 European Cup Spain U21 vs Ukraine U21
