leksandr Svatok: "The coaches' task was not to be afraid to play football"

Ukraine defender Oleksandr Svatok told VZbirna about his debut in the game against England in the qualifying campaign for Euro 2024.

[...] The confrontation with such an outstanding striker as Harry Kane must have been memorable. Can you say that this is the biggest challenge in your career?

- Yes, of course. I will remember these feelings for the rest of my life, because this is the first game for the national team in such a stadium, when there are so many spectators, the opponent is England. This is one of the strongest national teams now. It's incredible. It was very difficult against Kane because he is a top striker. He is already a legend of the English national team, he broke the record for goals. He is a very strong forward, good physical data, plays with his head, two working legs.

- You seemed to have overcome the excitement despite the fact that it was your debut game. How did you manage to calm yourself down? Are you a person who doesn't worry by nature?

- No, I always worry. This time I was also nervous. As soon as the game started, the excitement went away, and the excitement came.

- What was the coaches' task for this game?

- The task was not to be afraid to play football, to try to impose our game.

- It was the first time you played with Matvienko in the center. How is the understanding?

- It's very convenient to play with Matvienko, he plays well with the ball, gives tactical suggestions. It was comfortable.