Published 6/15/2012 2:52:48 PM by Shane Barrow from soccermogul

A huge thunderstorm and torrential downpour could not dampen France on Friday at Euro 2012 as they dispatched host side Ukraine in fine fashion.  Thunder, lightning and pouring rain caused an hour delay after the teams had only played a few minutes.  After the delay the teams returned and France took charge from there.

It was a wide open match for the most part as both sides looked for goals.  Andriy Shevchenko produced Ukraine's best chance of the match on 34 minutes as he rifled a shot Hugo Lloris handled.  Otherwise, the half belonged to France who were unable to produce their own goal despite quality play.

The second half was even more open as the two teams raced up and down the pitch.  France's quality play in the final third was to be rewarded though.  In the 53rd Benzema laid a pass off to Jeremy Menez who cut inside and fired low into the net. Just minutes later it would be 2-0 to France when Yohan Cabaye hit a left footer.

France were in control and the stadium was quiet as the Ukraine crowd sat stunned.  The French saw the game out from there and are sitting pretty in Group D.  France are on four points with a final group match against Sweden awaiting.  Ukraine are sitting on three points and will need a result in their final group match with England Tuesday to advance.

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