Renowned coach Serhii Kovalets analysed the match between theUkrainian national team and Italy (0-0) in Leverkusenfor UPL TV .
Serhii Kovalets (photo: fc.obolon.ua)- It's a pity that they didn't win and go directly to the Euros. The Italians spent a lot of energy - moral and physical - with North Macedonia. The second half with us showed that the Ukrainian national team was better prepared physically, emotionally and psychologically. Substitutes started to work, Zubkov and Sikan entered the game well. Although the Italians had their chances before the break - Chiesa scored higher and it was a one-on-one. The game was going well for us. Italy played in their best catenaccio tradition, especially in the second half - they closed down and defended the draw, which was enough for them. They also wanted to get a result, and they did.
- We attacked, but we didn't have enough to make the difference. Do you agree?
- Of course. I expected us to play actively and aggressively. And the fatigue of Italy - believe it or not, playing on the third day is physiologically difficult - will be felt. So we wanted to press high.
- The moment with the unassigned penalty. What is your opinion?
- There is no definite answer. We think it was a penalty, the Italians think it wasn't. But in general, the referee did a good job.
- Do you need to recognise any of our players individually?
- I think we need to talk about team actions - both in attack and defence the team played well. The players gave their all. The fans did not see indifference - this is the main thing.
- How would you rate this qualifying round in general?
- We beat North Macedonia, we beat Malta. And we played well against Italy, but let's recognise their high level.
- What prospects do you see for the play-offs?
- I think we will do well. Rebrov has introduced a systematic approach - the youth team, the youth national teams and the main team will work according to a single system. This should have been done before, because the best teams in the world have it. It is important that the war ends thanks to the Armed Forces. As I said, my two sons-in-law are at the frontline. The guys are looking for an opportunity to watch the matches of the national team and our teams in the European Cups. Thanks to them, we can play football and win.
