– Volodymyr Ivanovych, “Dynamo” and “Shakhtar” won one victory in four matches in the group round of the least prestigious club European football. Sadly?
– We always expect victories from our giants, no matter how difficult it may be, because they are the leaders of Ukrainian football. In particular, from “Dynamo”, which should take the first points in this tournament. But now, unfortunately, the situation is such that you have to accept what is.
– Is there light at the end of the tunnel?
– It is difficult to prepare for matches in the mode in which “Dynamo” and “Shakhtar” are. Dinamivtsi and “miners” are constantly traveling. It is difficult for coaches to carry out a full-fledged training process, so they do not have to count on stability. However, the upcoming matches are elevated to the rank of key in the fight for exit from the group. The tournament situation forces Ukrainian teams to play for victory, especially, again, this applies to Kyiv.
– Do you believe that the champion of Ukraine will leave the group?
– Yes. Ahead of “Dynamo” are opponents that are quite capable of them, I mean “Zrinsky”, “Omonia” and “Noa”. Only “Fiorentina” stands out, but the Italians are far from their best form now, occupying the last place in Serie A. Especially since at the moment Dynamo are only two points behind the required place. I believe that all the struggle lies ahead.
– That is, today Ukrainian fans have the right to count on a positive result from our clubs?
– I think, you can even say, I am sure that at least in individual skills, the players of the Ukrainian teams surpass their opponents. I believe that “Dynamo” and “Shakhtar” are the favorites of their pairs. True, it is necessary to prove it on the football field, and it has already happened more than once that our teams did not manage to do it.
– However, “Dynamo” will play against the champion of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Will it be difficult for Kyiv morally after the defeat against Shakhtar in the championship?
– This will not affect the potential of the “white and blue”. Yes, the “miners” won the championship, but a little earlier the Kyivans knocked out the Donetsk people from the Cup of Ukraine. On the contrary, “Dynamo” matches against “Shakhtar” should help, because it was, in fact, the level of European cups. And the more such matches, the faster the youth will grow. In such a tight schedule, when matches are held every three or four days, if you worry for a long time, you will not have enough strength for further victories. Football players must understand that they represent Ukraine on the international stage, so motivation and the desire to achieve a positive result must come first.
– If you know very little about the team, then it is not that strong? I mean Shakhtar’s chances.
– Arda Turan has such a selection of performers that they can impose their game on any opponent. But since the Turkish coach has a young team, it is important for them to maintain concentration throughout the game, not to lose compactness between the lines. And you need to maintain a balance between ball control, quick transition from defense to attack and vice versa.
– Try to predict the results of the matches “Dynamo” – “Zrynski” and “Shakhtar” – “Breidablik”?
– Kyiv needs to try to add discipline, organization of the game in defense and execution. The winner is determined not by the number of scoring opportunities, but by the one who realizes his chances better. If it is possible to combine all this, then I believe that Oleksandr Shovkovskyi’s wards can claim at least a goal. Although, let’s bet on – 2:0.
I am more confident in Shakhtar, as the technical equipment of the Brazilians can play a role. The potential there is great. If the “miners” catch their game, then a big victory can come out. 3:0.
Source: sport.ua