On Thursday, September 19, a press conference dedicated to the start of Dynamo Kyiv in the main stage of the Europa League was held. One of the participants of the event was the midfielder of the capital team Volodymyr Brazhko.
- If we look back at your path in the Champions League qualification, what words did Oleksandr Shovkovskiy say to the team before the first match against Partizan?
- They were very motivating words. But each of us tuned in our own way, everyone understood the importance of the matches with Partizan. Personally, I was already energized a week before the game. When we conceded first in the first match, we were a little shocked, but because we managed to score six goals, then three more in the return game. In the end, everything turned out the way we planned.
- Did you expect to beat Partizan with such a big total score?
- We didn`t expect it, of course, but we work to score a lot of goals. We realized almost all the chances in those matches, but still we could have scored more. In any case, we were very satisfied after those matches.
- What was not enough to get through to the main stage of the Champions League?
- Yes, this goal was very close. Many times we remembered with the guys how many chances we did not realize in the matches with Salzburg. Everything could have been different. But it is as it is, no team can only win. We need to draw conclusions and move on.
- How do you perceive the new format of the Europa League?
- When I first heard about it, I was a little shocked, because I didn`t understand how everything would happen. But when I figured it out, I liked it: more matches, more interesting opponents. Playing in January, of course, is very unusual for us, but I am very pleased: the more matches, the more chances to prove themselves and the team and the players. We have a very strong team with a healthy competition, so we can afford a strong rotation.
- What is better: to play with weak opponents and have an opportunity to score more points, or to get experience with big clubs?
- You want to play with big clubs too. Personally, I wanted to play with Manchester United at Old Trafford. But it is as it is. God willing, we'll make the playoffs. And then every team will be top-level.
- Did you watch yesterday's match of the 1st round of the Champions League main stage Sparta vs Salzburg (3:0)?
- I didn't watch the match, only the goals. I thought that Salzburg would win, but 3:0 is 3:0.
- How do you evaluate the capabilities of Lazio, the first opponent in the Europa League? Is it a top club?
- Of course, we can consider it a top club. From a very strong championship. Lazio have a strong selection of players. It is a club with history. It will be interesting.
- Have you talked to Dovbik about the upcoming match with Roma?
- Yes, we talked a little in the national team. Artem said that we were lucky to play in Rome - there are great fans there, great atmosphere. But in general, we joked more. Closer to the match we will talk seriously.
- How do you feel after yesterday's hit in the chest during the match with "Vorskla"? And how is Seballos doing?
- Brian is fine. Today he was out jogging, as well as me. As for me, the opponent hit me hard in the rib, it was hard to breathe. It was lucky that there was no fracture or crack, but just a strong bruise. So today I was fine. I will be ready for the match with "Ruh" the day after tomorrow.
- Have you watched the matches of your rivals in the Europa League?
- Of course, when you have time, you watch soccer. There was a match of "Roma", it was a draw. Very interesting team, a lot of good players in the squad. I also watched a review of Galatasaray match. But I didn`t see any of our opponents in action.
Alexander POPOV from the Parkovy ECC