Former player of the Ukraine national team Ivan Hetsko shared his expectations for the main round match of the Europa League between Galatasaray and Dynamo.
"To be honest, I was convinced that before the January matches on the international stage, Dynamo would take care of strengthening the most vulnerable position - in the center of defense. This did not happen, moreover, the backs that were under review could only be considered as players for the future. Why the Kyivans did not stop their choice on some experienced stopper who would bring order to the defense remains to be guessed.
Unfortunately, it has to be stated that currently, there are no top performers in the "Dynamo" squad who could deliver the needed result or lead the team. That's why the level of players that coach Oleksandr Shovkovskyi has may not be enough to maintain a leading position in the Ukrainian championship. It is possible that the Kyivans are thinking of strengthening themselves at the beginning of February when they start direct preparations for the second part of the season.
Tomorrow in Istanbul, Shovkovskyi has no choice but to rely on the players who were at his disposal last autumn. Still, I adhere to the view that for one game, it is always possible to gather and try to jump higher than the head. Especially since the coaching staff of the Kyivans had plenty of time to correct mistakes. Therefore, I lean towards the idea that the Kyivans will be able to challenge the Istanbul giant and secure their first points. I bet on a high-scoring draw," Hetsko said.