Former Ukraine player Sergiy Nagornyak told us what he expects from the Euro 2024 qualifying match between Ukraine and Malta, which will take place today in Trnava.
Serhiy Nagornyak (photo: uaf.ua)- Serhii Mykolaiovych, after the first half, was it hard to assume that Ukraine would be able to win against North Macedonia?
- Of course, there were doubts. Before the break, the Ukrainian national team did not look very good. There was no aggression, no intensity. But the goal scored by Zabarnyi in the second half opener was very important and perhaps a turning point.
And when Vanat earned a red card as a result of his skilful actions, the game was completely under the control of the Ukrainian national team. Then I no longer doubted the victory of Serhii Rebrov's team.
- Was there an underestimation of the opponent by the players of the national team of Ukraine?
- It is quite possible. We played well with Germany, achieved a result... We thought: "Where is Germany and where is North Macedonia?". I'm sure that the Blue and Yellows were preparing for the match in Skopje, but deep down, perhaps, they underestimated the opponent - that's why it all happened in the first half. But it's good that everything ended well.
I believe this will be a lesson for our players, and will give confidence not only to young performers but also to mature masters.
Not every day you lose 0-2 after the first half and then win in the end. This is a very useful victory for the guys' psychological confidence.
-Next up is Malta. What are your expectations?
- Expectations. We will come out and beat the opponent. (Smiles). It is important to start like the English did in the game with this opponent, when they were already 3-0 up by the 30th minute. To avoid nerves, you need to close the question of the winner as soon as possible.
I am sure that Serhii Rebrov will make changes to the line-up. It's still not easy to play three matches in eight days with the same team. But in any case, Ukraine simply has to beat Malta.
- Is itdifficult to prepare for the last match before the holidays?
- There are always such fears, but this is not a club competition - the players represent the interests of the country, especially in such a difficult time.
Therefore, I am sure that each player, after a difficult club season, will find internal reserves and give their best in the last match before the holidays.
-What is your forecast for the matchbetween Ukraine and Malta?
- I believe that the desire, not to mention the class, will be on the side of the Blue and Yellows. I am betting on a confident 3-0 victory for Serhii Rebrov's team.
