In an interview with the UPL TV telegram channel, well-known Ukrainian coach Oleksandr Babych shared his expectations from the Euro 2024 qualifying match between Ukraine and Italy.
- There is a difference compared to the match at the San Siro - now most of our players are in much better shape than then. They have game practice, they score goals. I think they are not just in playing condition, but in optimal condition. So all we need is a win.
- What can be the key to getting a much-needed victory?
- In the match at the San Siro, we did not expect Italy to play so aggressively in the first 15-20 minutes, to have such an advantage and score two goals. We need to be prepared for the fact that they can play just as aggressively and create a lot of pressure this time. It will be a battle on the football pitch, in which every micro-duel will matter. We are not inferior to the Italians in terms of skill and current form.
- What elements of the game should we have in mind first and foremost?
- If Italy defeats North Macedonia, we have to be prepared that with their experienced coach, they can close down and play on the counterattack. So we have to prepare several options well: defence-counterattack and ball control with pressure after a loss.
- Which of our players do you have the highest expectations of?
- Right now, our attack is really on the move. I also always pay attention to the central three - who will play against the ball and with the ball. Stepanenko, Zinchenko and, probably, Sudakov. Their performance can be decisive.
- What kind of football do you expect from Serhii Rebrov's team?
- In the beginning, there will be cautious football and that's normal. We need to approach this match calmly. It is important to use our trump cards - a quality transition to attack, because our attacking group can both keep the ball and run and organise a 4-5-man attack. It must be well-organised football in defence and fast enough in counter or positional attacks. Especially in the first half of the first half.