Former head coach of Volyn and Karpaty, and now the executive director of the Lviv club, Andriy Tlumak shared with Komanda1 his impressions of Ruslan Rotan's team's opening match with the Croats and assessed the chances of our countrymen in today's clash with the hosts.
Andriy Tlumak- To be honest, I expected more from the Balkans at the start.Still, Croatia is often called a forge of football talent, and much attention has always been paid to the preparation of the shift. But it is not for nothing that they say that the opponent plays the way the opponent allows him to. Our team was pleased with their tactical flexibility, deservedly gaining a two-goal lead right after the break, and they skilfully played the game. It was important to act accurately in defence when the Balkans went forward with great force to break the deadlock. Yes, it was sometimes difficult, but the opponent only once seriously threatened Anatoly Trubin's possession.
- In your opinion, what factor was decisive in getting the much-needed three points?
- Iron game discipline. It seems that literally every single player fulfilled the coach's instructions for the match.
- Who would you single out among the winners?
- Trubin, Taloverov, Kashchuk and Sikan.
- Do you think that manager Ruslan Rotan fielded the strongest team?
- I think so at the time of the match. But don't forget that several of our leaders have not yet reached optimal condition due to injuries and were unable to help. This is our significant reserve.
- Next up is a match with the Romanians, who were crushed by the Spaniards at the start...
- This confrontation will be decisive, first of all, for the hosts, they will put everything at stake, because in case of failure, the Romanians will lose all chances of reaching the next round. So it will be difficult for both teams. Of course, the appearance of Ukraine's Mykhailo Mudryk would be a big help for the visitors. But it is the prerogative of Rotan, who is responsible for the result, to decide who will take the field.
- What would you wish our guys today?
- Not to let the Romanians control the ball, as the Spaniards did in the first round. Then it will be easier to tip the scales in our favour. Nevertheless, Ukraine has an advantage in terms of player selection.
Vasyl Mikhailov
