Former Ukraine player Sergiy Nagornyak told Team1 what he expects from the Euro 2024 qualifying match Italy - Ukraine to be held today in Milan.
Serhiy Nagornyak (photo: uaf.ua)- Serhii Mykolaiovych, are the Apennines favourites in the Italy-Ukraine match ?
- Yes, they are. If only because the Italians will play at home, probably with the San Siro stands packed. But, given how the events of their match against Northern Macedonia developed, the Blue and Yellows have a good chance of a positive result. Moreover, the future hosts have some personnel problems.
- What will be the most important thing for the Ukrainians in this match?
- I think it will be necessary to withstand the initial assault from the Italians, which they will probably want to arrange in the first 15-20 minutes. And then to launch striking counterattacks, I am sure we will have them. It is important to take advantage of this. For example, in the match against England, we had one such chance and the Blue and Yellows took advantage of it. And the Italian national team is far from the England team now.
- Can the misfire in the match against North Macedonia hold the Italians back in the upcoming game?
- I don't think so. This draw will only add to the motivation of the Italian national team. Looking at the standings, they need to win, and Ukraine, by and large, will be happy with a draw. But we must not lose in any case to have a real chance of intervening in the fight for one of the tickets to the final part of the European Championship.
- What are the chances of the Ukrainian national team in the upcoming match?
- To be patient and wait for their chance.
- What is your prediction for the match Italy - Ukraine?
- Not only do I want to, but I am sure that it is possible to take points from such a formidable opponent. Of course, a victory would be a fantastic result, but let's focus on a draw (smiles). My bet is on 1-1.
Serhii DEMIANCHUK
