How Leeds United's Gjanni Alioski is aiming to make Euros history

Alioski is aiming to help his nation to their first victory or even major finals point against Ukraine in Bucharest.

North Macedonia are currently taking part in their debut international competition having earned qualification last year which sparked wild celebrations.

Igor Angelovski's side were beaten 3-1 by Austria in their opening Group C contest and know a positive result is a must if they are to have any real hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages of this summer's delayed tournament.

"We are proud of the match we played against Austria," Alioski reflected.

"The result was not good for us, but we have to think positively. We are focusing on the match with Ukraine, we have time to recover and we will be ready.

"We are analysing the opponent and we need to correct the mistakes from the first match. We need to play our football, to believe in ourselves. This match is like a final for us, but also for Ukraine."

Asked about the threat Ukraine pose later today, he added: "Tactically we need to be on the level, but also to be very careful. Ukraine plays good, offensive football.

"They scored two goals against the Netherlands, they enter as favourites in the match and that is good for us.

"We have quality, we will come out without fear and with faith in a positive result. We know exactly what we need to improve and it is important to be level during all 90 minutes.

"We have the quality to score two goals even if we are in the negative. The most important thing is to believe in ourselves and the team."