England v Ukraine Tips: Back-to-back wins await Three Lions after historic Italy victory

After a memorable and rare win in Naples, England are out to win back-to-back qualifiers in their bid to secure a speedy spot in the 2024 European Championships.

The Three Lions had never won a competitive game in Italy prior to Thursday night, but Declan Rice and Harry Kane hit the back of the net to end that torrid run and lock in a 2-1 win at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. 

Kane not only became the first English player to score a competitive winner against the Azzurri since 1977, but he also passed Wayne Rooney to become England’s top goalscorer of all time – a remarkable achievement considering he’s not even reached his 30th birthday yet. 

Now Gareth Southgate’s men turn their attention to a challenge that, on paper, should be much easier as Ukraine make the trip to Wembley. 

Impressive home record

England may have suffered a shock 4-0 defeat to Hungary back in June last year, but that appears to be an anomaly in an otherwise impressive record on home soil.

They haven’t lost a game at Wembley since 2020, and Southgate had only just retired from playing football the last time they lost a qualifier in their own backyard – that came against Croatia in 2007.

Harry Kane: England's all-time top goalscorer netted against Italy on Thursday

With at least one goal scored in each of their last 24 Euros qualifiers stretching back to 2011, and three or more goals posted in 17 of those encounters, this is certainly a tie to look at in the over/under market. Over 3.5 goals is priced at 2.66, while a home win and over 3.5 goals is 3.2.

Ruslan Rotan has only had a couple of months in his acting role for Ukraine and, given the current situation in his homeland at the moment, the preparations for these qualifiers would have been tough. It’s worth noting that Ukraine haven’t played a match since September.

So, with England buoyant and proving almost indomitable at home, the favourites tag seems strong and deserved.

History favours the hosts

These two have met eight times over the years, and only one game has been won by the away side – it’s very much a case of home advantage being put to good use.

The English have won five of those encounters, the Ukrainians just one. Five of those six victories have been won to nil. England may have conceded against Italy, but they’re usually strong defensively and Ukraine may not have the firepower to break through – if you fancy a home clean sheet, you can find that priced at 1.68. 

The Ukrainians have proved consistent in front of goal in recent times, though, with 13 goals notched in their last 16 matches, so it may pay to be wary on that front.

England v Ukraine Tips

England to win and Over 3.5 goals @ 3.2
England to win both halves @ 2.7