Former Ukraine national team player Oleh Shelayev commented on the failure of Kryvyirogorsk Kryvbas in the confrontation with Czech Victoria in the 3rd qualifying round of the Europa League. Recall, the Ukrainian team lost to their rival in both matches - first 1:2, and then 0:1.
- If we take the first game, there was at least some equality in the game, where Kryvbas looked better in the first half and Viktoria in the second. But in Pilsen, except for a stretch at the end of the first half, there was a bit of excitement. "Kryvbas" practically spent the game in their own half of the field, trying to get out from under pressure, or defending against the hosts' attacks.
We can say that the Czechs looked preferable, and did not let the opponent create threats near their goal. Frequent traveling certainly affects the physical condition of the team. If the team arrives two days before the game, there should be enough time to prepare and recover. It all comes down to the strength of your team, condition and confidence in a successful result. If Vernidub's wards had a weaker opponent, we would not talk about logistics. I believe the coaching staff will find a reason that prevented the team from playing well.
- But in the first 45 minutes "Victoria", apparently, swinging, also showed nothing, and did not create any chances. Everything was the same as in the first match. Before the break - nothing, after - goals.
- In the first half, the game was equal in terms of score, but we watched the picture on the half of the field, where Kryvbas was. And the hosts scored at the beginning of the second half and started to play according to the score, not taking much risk. Of course, "Kryvbas" with 15 minutes to go could go forward, build a higher line of defense, in a word, take a risk. It would have been possible to play more relaxed, not afraid of what difference to lose 0:1 or 0:2. But there would be hope to equalize the score and leave with dignity. Apparently, there was not enough strength for the final push. Physical foundation is the basis of everything. "Kryvbas" was not ready to count on more.
-"Kryvbas" built the game with long passes to Prince, expecting that he would get hold of the ball and be able to create something.
- These were single instances. Once he ran away one-on-one, the second time he got tangled with the ball at a good opportunity. How far it was justified and whether it bore useful fruit on the whole can be judged by the score and the goals scored. It appeared that Prince had come to sell himself. And he did it persistently, not paying attention to his partners. We can state "Kryvbas" did not show its best qualities in the game.
Serhiy Shebek