On Thursday, December 5, the draw for the second round of Euro-2025 U-17 qualifying took place in Nyon, Switzerland. The youth national team of Ukraine was drawn into Group A1 along with Italy, Croatia, and Slovakia.
The head coach of the "blue-yellow" team, Yurii Moroz, commented on his team’s upcoming games:
— The very rank of the elite round suggests that there cannot be weak opponents here. There is no need to choose opponents, any team can shine.
If we talk specifically about our opponents, I can say that we know Croatia quite well, as we recently played two friendly matches against them. They are a very strong team, and moreover, the tournament will take place in Croatia. Italy doesn’t need to be represented again; they are favorites in all age categories. As for Slovakia, we will probably be considered dark horses.
It is important for our boys to approach the tournament in good psychological condition. The tournament will take place in the spring, and many members of the Ukrainian national team may lack match practice against strong opponents. In the elite round, every game is worth its weight in gold.
I won’t reveal a secret if I say that the first two matches against Italy and Croatia will be crucial for the Ukrainian national team.
