Former Shakhtar and Ukraine national team midfielder Serhiy Kovalyov told Team1 about the Blue-Yellows' games against Northern Macedonia and Malta.
- Serhiy, what impressions have you got from the game of the Ukraine national team against the team from Northern Macedonia?
- My impressions are twofold. Everyone saw that there were two different halves. Unfortunately, in the first half, the Ukraine team was unable to organize the game, there were many individual errors, for which we were punished. But the second half for Serhiy Rebrov's charges was above reproach. Footballers showed their full potential. I'm sure there was a constructive conversation at half-time, which led to the final result.
- This was a tough win, won't it prevent the Blues and Yellows from being as composed as possible ahead of the game with Malta?
- On the contrary. The first half against Northern Macedonia provided information for reflection, and conclusions will be drawn. Every next game is a battle to try and be among the candidates for the European Championship.
- The Maltesenational team is ahead. What are your expectations?
- Whatever people may say about their future rival, but the Ukraine national team is much higher in class, and the game will be played by the "blue-yellow" team, it is for sure. The coaching staff of our team had very little time to convey all their requirements to the players. So in the match against Malta, I hope the team will work as a well-oiled machine.
- How big do you think rotations in the squad will be?
- I do not think there will be any global changes. But the mentor will change two or three positions. I think it will be the right back, central axis of defence, and, perhaps, there will be some changes in the centre of midfield.
- What is your prediction for the forthcoming game ?
- I do not think the game will be easy for the Bilo-Syni, but I am confident that the victory will be for the Ukraine national team. Score? 2:0.
Serhiy Demyanchuk