Northern Ireland 2 : 0 Ukraine
Northern Ireland recorded a famous victory after downing Ukraine 2-0 in Lyon. Gareth McCauley and Niall McGinn scored the goals on a glorious night for the Ulstermen.
Michael O’Neill had made five changes from the side who lost to Poland, with Connor Washington, Aaron Hughes, Corry Evans, Stuart Dallas and Jamie Ward replacing Kyle Lafferty, Chris Baird, Conor McLaughlin, Paddy McNair and Shane Ferguson. Northern Ireland looked consequently far sharper than they had against Poland in a goalless first half with Ukraine.
In the 49th minute, Gareth McCauley headed in an Oliver Norwood free kick to send the Ulstermen into rapture. They withstood some Ukraine pressure and coach Michael O’Neill used his substitutes wisely.
After a two minute stoppage for hail, the men in green continued to frustrate Ukraine. Six minutes of stoppage time were added on but that proved to Northern Ireland’s advantage. Josh Magennis fired in a shot which Andriy Pyatov could only palm out into the path of Niall McGinn, who finished with authority.
Germany drew 0-0 with Poland, ensuring Ukraine’s elimination.
