U21EURO: Chelsea flop delivers for country as war-torn Ukraine shock France to reach semis

It was a memorable outing for Ukraine in the European under-21 Championship after sending France packing on Sunday night.

Ukraine thrashed one of the pre-tournament favourites 3-1 with Chelsea’s Mykhaylo Mudryk involved during their quarterfinal clash at the Cluj Napoca, Romania. 

Three of the goals were scored in a blistering opening half, with Ukraine forced to come from behind to seal the win. 

Chelsea forward Mudryk had a first season to forget in the Premier League following a celebrated arrival at Stamford Bridge.

But the Blues would be encouraged by his performance against the young Les Bleus after watching his good display on Sunday night.

He was on the pitch for 78 and made his presence felt for his country before he was substituted. 

After star of the show, Heorhii Sudakov canceled out Rayan Cherki’s 19th minute opener for France, Mudryk was on hand to create a second goal for Sudakov to complete his brace and give Ukraine a 2-1 lead at the break.

The 22-year-old Chelsea winger was substituted in the 78th minute and Ukraine went on to wrap up the win with a beautiful third goal courtesy of Artem Bondarenko eight minutes later.

Ukraine’s shock win was their second-ever against France and sees them through to the semifinals of European Championship.

They join England who defeated Portugal in the other match of the day.

Ukraine will now face five-time champions Spain in the last four for a place in the final.