Romania vs Ukraine Euro 2024, Group E: Romania and Ukraine go head-to-head at the Allianz Arena in the Euro 2024 Group E opener on Monday 17th June.

Both teams aim to kick off their tournament campaigns with a victory, setting the stage for the next rounds. Romania and Ukraine will be joined by Slovakia and Belgium in Group E making it a competitive group.

Returning to the European Championship after missing the 2020 edition, Romania topped their qualifying group, remaining unbeaten against Switzerland, Israel, and Kosovo.

This impressive run marks their revival in international football. Key player Radu Dragusin, who recently joined Tottenham Hotspur, will lead the defense, while Nicolae Stanciu, their standout performer in the qualifiers, is expected to captain the side.

Ukraine secured their spot at Euro 2024 through a play-off, showcasing their tenacity and skill. The team features Premier League talents such as Mykhailo Mudryk from Chelsea and Oleksandr Zinchenko from Arsenal.

Additionally, Artem Dovbyk, La Liga's top goalscorer, and Andriy Lunin, the Real Madrid goalkeeper, add significant strength to their squad. Ukraine, aiming to surpass their quarter-final finish three years ago, will be a formidable opponent.

Overall Romania and Ukraine have clashed six times. Romania won the first three encounters between 2001 and 2003, but Ukraine has remained unbeaten in the last three, winning two and drawing one between 2010 and 2016. Their most recent match saw Ukraine win 4-3 in a friendly in May 2016.

Euro 2024: Romania vs Ukraine Key Players to watch

Nicolae Stanciu (Romania)

Expected to captain the team, Stanciu was Romania's best player during the qualifiers. His performance will be crucial in leading Romania beyond the group stages only for the second time in history.

Radu Dragusin (Romania)

The young defender, recently transferred to Tottenham, will anchor Romania's defense. His ability to control the backline will be vital for their success.

Mykhailo Mudryk (Ukraine)

The Chelsea winger has had a mixed season in England however for the national team he has been immense. Mudryk's goal in the play-off final helped the side secure their spot in Euro 2024. His speed and ability to disrupt defenses will be key.

Oleksandr Zinchenko (Ukraine)

Oleksandr Zinchenko has been a seasoned player as a left-back in the Premier League for both Manchester City and Arsenal. However, the Ukraine captain plays in midfield for his country and is the juncture between the attack and defense. His involvement in the game will be key to Ukraine's compactness in the middle.