The Ukraine will look to clinch a spot in the World Cup finals next summer when they take on San Marino.
The Ukrainians no longer control their own destiny and sit just one point behind England for the top spot in the group. The winner of the group qualifies automatically for the tournament. The team could still manage the feat as it takes on San Marino in its final match; Ukraine previously destroyed San Marino 9-0 at home in last month's qualifiers. A Ukraine win coupled with an England draw or loss against Poland would give the Ukraine the top spot in the group.
Despite the possibility, the team's coaching staff seems to be preparing for the playoffs rather than an automatic berth. The runner-up gets a chance to compete in a playoff next month against another runner-up with the victor qualifying for the World Cup finals in Brazil next summer.
"We are realists," said Ukraine Coach Mikhail Fomenko, according to Sky Sports. "It looks like we will have to play in the play-offs."
He added that he thinks Poland will stand no chance against England.
"I believe you have to be playing close to your best to beat England - but to beat England at Wembley, you have to be playing at a super level," he said. "Being realistic, I don't think Poland are playing at a super level right now."
Fomenko even stated that his club was not in a position to beat England on its best day.
"I do not think we are stronger than England right now, so I have no regrets about the England game in September," he said. "I do not think they are a weaker rival. If I did, I would have regrets but that is not the case. If we were stronger, we would have won in London and Kiev, but we didn't."
Prediction: Ukraine takes down San Marino 9-0.
Start Time: Kick-off starts at 3 p.m. EST
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