Ukraine coach hopes players handle pressure in Sweden opener

Ukraine manager Oleh Blokhin believes the co-hosts will have to cope with a "tornado" of interest if they are to start Euro 2012 with a win against Sweden. The Zhovto-Blakytni welcome Erik Hamren's side to the Olimpiysky Stadium in Kiev on Monday as they kick off their Group D campaign. Many have already written off Ukraine's chances of reaching the knock-out stage, with France and England to follow tomorrow's match against Sweden. Blokhin knows his side face a tough challenge and hopes his players, especially the younger members of the squad, rise to the occasion. "These guys have to face up to it, whether they like it or not," he told www.uefa.com. "I said back in 2010 that it was time to revamp the national team. "They may not win anything, but they're going to gain precious experience for the future, although of course I hope we go a long way in the competition. "[Hosting the tournament is] like a tornado that could throw us in an unknown direction. "When I took over I immediately set the goal to win the tournament since we are the hosts. "So let's split the winners' medal between Ukraine and Poland." Ukraine head into the match on the back of friendly defeats to Austria and...