In a dramatic European U21 Championship qualifier, James McAtee’s heroics secured a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory for England over Ukraine at the Vitality Stadium.
Ukraine took the lead in the 70th minute through Taras Mykhavko, who headed in from a corner after England’s goalkeeper James Trafford misjudged the cross. But McAtee had other plans, turning the game on its head with two late strikes—first, a stunning free-kick, and then a match-winner deep into stoppage time. His double helped England close the gap on group leaders Ukraine to just two points in the race for the top of Group F.
The match wasn’t without its early struggles for the Young Lions. Despite their high energy, they failed to convert chances in the first half, with Liam Delap nearly capitalizing on a Ukraine goalkeeper error only for McAtee’s shot to be denied. Delap came close again later, clipping the crossbar after a clever pass from McAtee.
England’s frustration continued as they couldn’t find the back of the net, with Jaden Philogene’s effort going straight at the Ukraine keeper, Ruslan Neshcheret.
But just when it seemed Ukraine might leave with the win, McAtee delivered. His powerful free-kick crashed off the bar and into the net, leveling the score. Moments later, he was in the right place at the right time, slamming home the winner from a loose ball in stoppage time to steal all three points for England.
The win gives Ben Futcher’s men momentum as they inch closer to the top spot in their qualifying group.
