Dnipro-1 midfielder Oleksandr Nazarenko spoke about the entry of the Ukrainian youth team to Euro 2023 U-21.
— Do you feel involved in a great event?
- Before the matches, we were told that for many years the youth team of Ukraine had not entered the Euro. We knew this and really wanted to rewrite history and get into the European Championship. Thank God it succeeded.
— After the first match, when you played well, but conceded goals, didn’t your self-confidence shaken?
- No, we calmly analyzed the game, mistakes, looked at individual moments. We had a lot of theories after the first match. There was no excitement. We got together as a team, talked and were determined only to win.
— How much did the fact that the first match took place on artificial turf affect?
- I would not pay attention to it. The lawn was artificial, but very high quality, it was even watered before the game. Moreover, I will say that the field in the second leg was more difficult.
— In both matches, you came on as a substitute. What tasks did you receive from the coach?
- My tasks included putting pressure, creating pressure, opening up behind the backs of the defenders, doing a lot of dirty work.
— After such victories, is the return to the club on an emotional upsurge?
— Yes, you arrive in a good mood. Especially now, when we entered the Euro. It's nice that all the guys, coaches, staff, management congratulated. Thank them. And the mood is very good now, I am preparing for the match with Lviv on a positive note.
— If we talk about the future, will entering the Euro be a great motivation to show yourself even more in the club?
— Motivation will be extraordinary! Entering the Euro is an achievement, but we want not just to go there, but to show our maximum and go as far as possible. At the same time, I understand that a place in the application is not guaranteed to anyone, so you need to prove almost from the very beginning that you deserve to play for the national team.