The first big surprise in the European U17 Team Championships happened on Sunday, where Ukraine won in Group 2.
Germany was the big favourite to make it out of Group 2, but the second seed in the tournament will not be playing for medals in Poland.
Ukraine, who like Germany beat Slovakia and Scotland going into the final group tie, got the best possible start winning the mixed doubles. Artem Nosov/Mariia Stoliarenko beat Julia Meyer and Jarne Schlevoigt in three games 21-8 16-21 21-15.
Perfect singles output
In men’s singles Viacheslav Yakovlev made it 2-0 for the Ukrainians, winning a thrilling match against Kilian Ming-Zhe Maurer 21-19 29-30 21-13.
Polina Buhrova made it 3-0 for Ukraine beating Thuc Phuong Nguyen, who is first seeded in the women’s singles individual event. Buhrova won in straight games 21-16 24-22.
- I am so happy that I won, Buhrova said and the women’s singles looks forward to enter the knock-out stage.
- We do not know who we will play, but we are so happy to be qualified, because Germany was the second seed. Of course, Russia is the top seed, but I think we can win the Championships, Buhrova stated.