Famous Ukrainian coach Serhiy Kovalets told us what he expects from the first match of the 3rd qualifying round of the Conference League between Greek Aris and Dynamo Kyiv, which will take place today in Thessaloniki.
Sergey Kovalets-Serhii Ivanovych, are Dynamo players ready for theEuropean Cup season?
- First of all, I think that conclusions will be drawn from last season in terms of the game and the result. It is very important that Andriy Yarmolenko has returned to Dynamo, which is a plus for the entire Ukrainian championship.
He himself notes that he has not yet gained optimal condition, but it is important that he has already managed to score goals in the new championship. Andriy is a professional, so he will quickly catch up.
It seemed to me that Dynamo are confident in their abilities now.
This is confirmed by the sparring matches in preparation for the season and two opening matches in the Premier League. At least for now, we can see a complete picture in the actions of the Kyiv team.
-In two rounds ,Dynamo scored eight goals. Is this an excellent result?
- Undoubtedly, but you need to understand that the Ukrainian league and European competitions are two different tournaments in terms of their level. But in any case, the victories against Minaya and Obolon were essential for confidence.
- Dynamo has already played two games in the league, while their opponent Aris has not yet started. Is this an advantage for Kyiv?
- Of course it is. The UPL matches, by the way, also showed Dynamo's mistakes. This is especially true in defence, as Minaj could have scored more than one goal. And Obolon sometimes stumped the White and Blues' defence.
No wonder Mircea Lucescu himself confirmed that he was dissatisfied with the team's defensive performance. It is good that this happened on the eve of the European Cup battles, when there is still time to make some changes.
Matches are won by the attack, and tournaments by the defence, so we still need to work on teamwork in defence.
- In your opinion, what is Dynamo's current strength?
- I think it's all about motivation. It seems to me that this season will be markedly different from the last one. It is important that almost all the team's leaders remain in the team. And, of course, Yarmolenko's arrival will a priori strengthen Dynamo.
-What is your forecast for the match in Greece betweenArisandDynamo?
- We need to stick to the strategy of a two-match confrontation, but in the first meeting, I think Kyiv will not lose. I would even bet on a minimal 1-2 victory for the White and Blues.
The Ukrainian team has more players who are well aware of what European Cups are or, say, important matches for the national team. However, all questions about progressing to the next round will be resolved only in the return leg.
Yaroslav Pyatnitsky
