Goalkeeper of Kyiv “Dynamo U-19” Vyacheslav Surkis shared his expectations for the first match of the third round of the UEFA Youth League against “2 Koriku” from Kosovo.
Vyacheslav Surkis— The mood, of course, is combative. A few days ago, we played against “Chornomorets,” and I believe we played well in that match. And after that, we started preparing for our upcoming opponent. We are analyzing the team, getting ready, and practicing our shots.
— In the championship against “Chornomorets,” we played on artificial turf, now we have switched to natural grass. What’s the difference, how difficult is it?
— There is a difference, and not so much because of the surface—after all, we played in an indoor arena, it wasn’t that cold there. But these are all minor details, as it’s not the first time we play in such weather conditions.
— What does it mean for a footballer to participate in the UEFA Youth League? Many of you represent the youth national teams, how important is it to show yourself on the international stage at the club level? And what’s the difference from matches in the Ukrainian championship?
— First of all, there’s a higher intensity since we play against the champions of their countries. But we prepare for each opponent with good fighting spirit.
— In the confrontation with “Maribor,” our team conceded in both matches. Are you setting yourself the goal of keeping a clean sheet in the upcoming game?
— Of course, there is such a desire, but the priority is the team’s victory. I go out onto the field not to play ‘to nil.’ It doesn’t matter who scores or saves—the win belongs to all of us together. So, the focus is solely on victory.
— The Dynamo players have to play away from home, all matches are held on the road. Does this bring any problems or challenges?
— Undoubtedly, I would like to play in my hometown, in Kyiv, but we all understand the circumstances under which we cannot do that. So, we have to play abroad. But we have already gotten used to this, so I don’t think it will add any difficulties, since this isn’t the first time. We currently have good conditions—a training field, a hotel, so there are no problems.
— “2 Koriku” has already passed two rounds, “Dynamo” has gone through one round. Could this become an advantage for the opponent?
— I wouldn’t say so. We played two matches against “Maribor,” most of our players participated in the U-18/19 national teams, so everyone has experience at the international level. Therefore, I don’t think that a greater number of matches for “2 Koriku” in the current UEFA Youth League will make a difference.
