Ukraine coach Oleg Blokhin believes Friday's opponents France along with England are favourites to qualify from Group D despite his side sitting on top after a dream start to Euro 2012 on home soil.
The co-hosts produced one of the fight backs of the tournament coming from a goal behind to beat Sweden on Monday courtesy of golden Andriy Shevchenko who's put them one win away from the last eight as they enter the second round of fixtures.
But Blokhin is refusing to get carried away in the euphoria that has gripped the country in the wake of their triumph and expects a tough test when they come face-to-face with the French at the Donbass Arena.
"I think England and France are the favourites in the group," he said.
"If (Laurent) Blanc said France are an outsider he did not mean it. They have great young players. I said after Sweden we haven't achieved anything yet. My main task is to give strength to the players and make it possible that we get through the group stage.
"I will do everything to give them the energy to perform. In my head I have tomorrow's game but I try not to think about it because the pressure was very big after the first match."
France head coach Laurent Blanc was frustrated after his side failed to beat England in their opening game but hopes the rise in expectations on Ukraine will work to their advantage as they look to prolong their 22 game unbeaten streak.
Blanc insists, however, that his players should be aware that the c0-hosts could respond positively to the pressure from the home crowd and it's up to them to produce a winning performance on the day.
"It can be an advantage to play at home but it can be a disadvantage too. Ukraine have started very well and they have already played under a lot of pressure.
"There will be even more pressure on the second game and sometimes pressure can hinder people but sometimes they can rise to the occasion.
"We know where they are good but it's up to us to perform well. I heard that the Ukraine coach doesn't fear France and we don't fear them but we respect them.
"We need to stop them from playing but also impose our game."
Team News
Captain Shevchenko should take his place in attack after emerging unhurt from a minor road accident following the Sweden game with Blokhin keeping his cards close to his chest.
Yann M'Vila could return for France after recovering from injury and could replace Alou Diarra in midfield despite his starring performance against England.
Key Players
Andriy Shevchenko
At 35 everyone thought the Dynamo Kiev striker was a spent force in competitive international football. But Shevchenko proved his doubters wrong with two goals his younger self would have been proud of. His drive and determination has never diminished and he'll put every ounce of blood, sweat and tears into ensuring Ukraine book an early slot in the last eight.
Samir Nasri
Surprisingly the Manchester City winger was arguably France's best player during the 1-1 draw with England scoring the equaliser and providing a telling link between midfield and attack. Nasri will expected to produce more of the same as Les Bleus look to push themselves towards the top of Group D and the quarter finals.