Ukraine goalkeeper to miss crucial Ireland match after positive Covid test

A draw would secure Ireland a place in the play-offs for the Euro 2021 finals

Goalkeeper Kateryna Samson celebrates Ukraine's first goal against the Republic of Ireland at Tallaght Stadium in October 2019. Ireland won 3-2. Photo by Eóin Noonan/Sportsfile

After Covid-19 weakened Ireland men’s team earlier this month, the women have indirectly benefited from the virus as Ukraine will be without their first-choice goalkeeper for Friday’s critical Euro qualifier (kick-off 4.30pm).

Kateryna Samson — a veteran of Ukraine’s only major tournament appearance at the 2009 Euros — had a positive result from Uefa’s round of testing on Monday.