Igor Leonov: "If you don't beat Iceland, you just have to pack up and leave"

Former Minaj coach Ihor Leonov shared his expectations of the decisive Euro 2024 play-off match between Ukraine and Iceland.

- Who should be in the centre of attack? Dovbyk scored against Bosnia, Yaremchuk also scored. Both are in good shape. Who should be given more time on the pitch this time?

- I would give a chance to two and would not be afraid. This is my opinion. One is good, and the other is good. I would put two of them in the starting line-up at once and they would drive the Icelanders away. You can do it without fear. There will be a result, believe me. Play a 3-5-2 formation. Why not? Didn't you play like that? We have. So what are the problems?

- The same competition for goalkeepers. Lunin or Trubin? Andrii played well in the previous game, but Anatolii has more experience in such matches. Or maybe Bushchan can start?

- I think there is no need to change anything. Let Lunin stay. I can say to play Trubin, because he is my student. But I won't do it. The goalkeeping coach sees them and how they train. That's why he has to make a choice. And we, experts or journalists, don't have this opportunity. Therefore, there is no need to say anything about the goalkeeper at all. Everyone should do their job.

- When we play in Poland, there will be tremendous support. This was not the case in Bosnia. Will the fans play a decisive role in this game as well?

- We have to take the initiative right away. What is there to be afraid of? They won't play combination football, it will be hit-and-run. We need to pinch them in the other half of the pitch to give them no chance.

- What is your prediction for the Ukraine vs Iceland match?

- If you don't beat them, you just have to pack up and leave. I think the Ukrainian national team will win. One hundred per cent. Yes, there is a risk. But it is minimal. The guys themselves understand that they need only a victory. I think it will happen.

Nazariy SHMIGIL