Ukraine's defender Maksym Taloverov answered journalists' questions at a press conference dedicated to the team's performance at Euro 2024.
Maksym Taloverov. Photo: UAF press service- Did you watch the Belgium-Romania match yesterday? What do we need to do to get out of the group?
- I agree with Georgi. It's great when everything depends on you. If we get a positive result, everything will be fine. I think it's easier that way.
- What or whom should our national team pay attention to before the match with Belgium?
- Of course, the Belgians have very good players. These are De Bruyne, Lukaku and Doku. But football is played by a team, and Belgium is a balanced and strong team. But everyone has equal chances now, so we will do our best.
- How safe is the Ukrainian national team at the Euro? Were there any situations or provocations?
- I would like to add that representatives of many countries are also trying to support our team. Many want to help, but we have not encountered any provocations.
- Maksym, doesn't the fact that you are seen as a reserve player depress you? How much competition is there in the national team?
- I believe that for every player to make his debut at the Euro is a great event. This is one of the most prestigious tournaments. I am very proud of the trust of the coaches. For me, the most important thing is to help the team. And 10 seconds or 90 minutes doesn't matter.
As for the competition, the national team has very high-quality players. This only motivates us to show all our qualities in training. The most important thing is that we win matches.
- When you see Ukrainian flags at the stadium, how much does it motivate you? There are also many people with Russian flags at the Euros. Does it affect you?
- Of course, when we see Ukrainian flags in the stands, we are motivated and encouraged. As for the Russian flags, we are being provoked and will continue to be provoked. It is important that we concentrate on our game and ignore it.
- The situation in the group is such that a draw may not be enough for us. Do you realize that we need to play to win against the Belgians?
- I believe that a team playing for a draw has already lost by 95 percent before the match. That's why every team, including Ukraine, plays to win. Everyone understands that they need to win and will do their best to do so.
