Kyiv "Dynamo" midfielder Roman Salenko shared his emotions after the match with Turkish "Galatasaray" (3:3) in the 7th round of the main stage of the Europa League, which was his debut in European competitions.
Roman Salenko (left) in the match against «Galatasaray» Photo — Yu. Yuriev— Roman, congratulations on your debut in European competitions! What were your emotions right after the game?
— I am very happy, of course. Moreover, the game unfolded this way, we managed to earn our first point in the Europa League, I went onto the field... Emotions are hard to express in words.
— You have already played in the UEFA Youth League, but undoubtedly, the difference is noticeable. Was it difficult for you to step onto the field at such a moment for the team?
— Of course, it was very difficult. After all, you play what can be called academic football, and here you have to step onto the field in the first team's lineup. Moreover, it wasn't just an ordinary match, but in front of a crowded stadium of fans, who whistled every time we touched the ball. I only went on for five minutes, but what about the guys who played the full 90...
— The match didn't go according to our script, but we showed character and snatched a draw. What were the emotions in the locker room, what did the head coach say?
— The emotions were joyful, the president came in, congratulated us on the game. We understand that it's our first point, but at the same time, we are not fighting for anything. Nevertheless, we demonstrated character, showed what we are capable of, and we will show it once again in next season's European competitions.
— Before the match, the head coach and the captain said it was a battle for the club's prestige. Was the team really focused on showing everything they are capable of on the field?
— In this regard, I agree with the head coach of "Galatasaray," who said before the match that despite the current position in the standings, "Dynamo" has a very good team with quality players. Yes, the result isn't the best, but everything is ahead.
— Does the return of the team leader Andriy Yarmolenko give the players more confidence?
— I think any words here are unnecessary; everyone has seen everything for themselves. Even in training, you feel more confident when he is next to you, especially in matches. You look for his pass, he receives it, you open up for him— even from such simple actions, you feel more confidence.
