Serhii Kovalets' head coach of Petrovskii Ingulets shared his impressions about the Euro 2024 qualifying match England vs Ukraine (2:0), which was held last Sunday in London.
Sergey Kovalets I will not be an originalist and say that the Ukrainians played the way the hosts allowed them to. The only thing you can not reproach the guests for is the lack of diligence. However, it was clearly not enough to count on a positive result at Wembley. I'll take this opportunity to mention the incredible atmosphere during the game, which was to be expected after all, England is Ukraine's strong ally in the fight against Russia's aggressor.
- By the way, in your opinion, was appointing Ruslan Rotan as acting head coach for this match the right one?
- I think so. First of all, many players knew him well by playing together for the main team of the country. Secondly, Rotan confirmed his professionalism and potential through his fruitful work with the Youth national team. Thirdly, there was a feeling that his appointment will be an additional incentive for our players who will want to play at their best and support the young leader in this way. In the end there was no particular risk: England were considered the favorites, and so it was important to simply take advantage of the March window in the international calendar. Moreover, the Ukrainian national team had not gathered for a long time, and there was a great opportunity to see what the veterans were worth and who can be seriously counted on from the newcomers.
- Was the starting line-up of our team expected?
- Of course, it was a shame that Andriy Yarmolenko and Ilya Zabarny could not help because of injuries. Their absence was felt. As for the answer to your question, I was hoping to see Viktor Tsygankov in the starting lineup, who is now featuring brilliantly in the Spanish La Liga. But Rotan decided otherwise.
- Despite the game advantage the English failed to score an early goal, moreover, the visitors were close to keeping their possession untouched until the break...
- After gaining a very important victory over their main rival Italy in the first game a few days ago, the English decided not to force the issue in the match against Ukraine. They had the feeling that their advantage in the class, sooner or later, would allow them to tip the scales in their favor. Although, of course, it was a shame that our boys could not hold out in the first half, because having scored twice before the break, the hosts put the winner off the agenda.
- Thanks to what factors could the Ukrainians make life difficult for the Brits?
- First of all, they moved quickly from defense to attack, using short and medium passes. However, our midfield clearly lacked chemistry and mobility, and the hosts confidently dictated the conditions through compact action, accurate tackling, intensity.
- Who of the Ukrainians clearly fell out of the ensemble?
- You know, I would not want to criticize anyone... On the contrary, the guys should be supported, still, do not forget that they faced one of the strongest teams in the world.
- Unfortunately, against the backdrop of England's powerful actions, Mykhailo Mudryk - our most valuable player - was not noticeable on the pitch. Does not English Chelsea management regret paying such a lot of money for him?
- Let's be patient and not jump to conclusions. Mudrick needs time to adapt in a very strong English elite division. For now, the weight of responsibility hangs over him and it's very much a hindrance for him to show his best qualities. But after gaining valuable experience, Mudrik can fix everything and I believe that already in the June games of the qualifying cycle we will see a completely different Mikhail. I also hope that Yarmolenko and Zabarniy will help the team.
- But the fact that we still don't know when the Ukraine national team will have a permanent leader cannot help worrying...
- This is really a problem, and the solution of this staffing issue must not be delayed. If we want to make it to the finals of the European Championship, we must defeat Northern Macedonia and Malta in June. We need everyone in their places, because every trifle will have to be taken into account.
Vasiliy MIKHAILOV
