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World Cup 2010

Saturday 10th October 2009

Andriy Shevchenko of Ukraine (L) celebrates scoring his goal with team mate Vyacheslav Shevchuk during the FIFA 2010 World Cup Group 6 Qualifying match between England and Ukraine at Wembley Stadium on April 1, 2009 in London, England.
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Ukraine vs England Preview

Ukraine are out to put the first dent in England's perfect World Cup qualifying record as they bid to secure their place in South Africa.

With England already qualified for next summer's World Cup, Fabio Capello's side are now playing for a chance to collect 10 wins from 10 games, but Ukraine have much more on the line as they sit third in Group Six, two points behind Croatia but with this as their game in hand.

There is a lot on the line, and coach Alexei Mikhailichenko is not shying away from it.

"We must think not about ourselves but about all the people experiencing this game because of us," he said.

"All of Ukraine hopes and believes in victory. This is the most important match in the cycle and everything depends on us."

England's perfect record so far means they are already regarded as a real contender for South Africa next year after a run which has seen them inflict two heavy defeats on Croatia and record a rare triumph over Germany in Berlin.

There is still a long way to go, but Capello is confident his team are showing their quality, rather than just riding good form.

"No, I am not concerned the team has peaked too early," said the Italian. "Confidence is really important and when you win, it gets even better.

"We are at a good level now. When you are at 90% it's harder to improve. But I think you must try to get better in every game."

That means there will be no half-hearted effort from Capello's men.

"This game will not be a friendly game," said Capello.

"I spoke with the players on Wednesday and told them about some mistakes we have to resolve."

And it is the individual win Capello stresses he is after, not a qualifying record.

"Ten wins in 10 games is not important," he said.

"I want to see a team that plays like it has done in the games that have gone before. I want to see the same spirit, the same speed and the same style. That is important thing.

"Sometimes you find a team is stronger than you and you can lose. But the main thing is that you play."


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