Ukraine (9) v (7) Zimbabwe

After winning their opening matches in the secondary group stage of The 2008 Homeless World Cup, Ukraine have turned out a great performance to beat Zimbabwe 9-7, which puts them in contention for top spot in Group A.

It was the Zimbabwe side that started the match stronger, after a lapse of concentration from the Ukrainians allowed Farai Murwira an open shot at the back post that he finished neatly.

A second goal to Zimbabwe was scored when the Ukrainian goalkeeper was unable to stop a blasted shot.

Ukraine then started to control the match with the majority of possession going their way.

Going into the break Ukraine were looking good for a one goal lead until a piece of individual skill by a Zimbabwe striker pulled the Africans level.

Starting with the ball in his own half, he nut-megged the Ukrainian defender, slid past another and drove a powerful shot into the far side of goal.

The lead swapped sides several times early on in the second half, until Ukraine again took control of the match with their patient style of play.

Ukraine finished their scoring for the match in style, with Andriy Nikitin dribbling past one defender and then deftly chipping the Zimbabwe goalkeeper.

Zimbabwe were able to find a consolation goal late in the seventh minute but the match was too far gone for it to trouble Ukraine.

The win leaves Ukraine fighting for the top position of Group A with an England side that looks tough to beat.

Photos: Photoworx