Big moment: Ukraine authorities plan to put on a big show

Once again, Surkis is adamant that his country will prove itself to be worthy.

'People will see the positive changes for themselves and enjoy visiting a hospitable Ukraine,' he said. 'I have no doubt Euro 2012 will be the greatest tournament ever staged and that the games will take place in the best possible conditions. People will see how important football is to Ukraine.'

With the national team's first game taking place on Monday against Sweden in Kiev, coach Oleg Blokhin will not appreciate being reminded of his racist outburst about foreign players in the
Ukrainian league in 2006 and will hope his team can produce something more positive on the pitch.

This, after all, is an important three weeks for his team as well as for his country.

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