The defender of “Alexandria” Artem Shabanov talked about his thoughts on the prospects of his team in the final stretch of the current Ukrainian championship. With three rounds left until the end of the championship, the "townspeople" are in second place in the standings, trailing the leading “Dynamo” by four points and ahead of “Shakhtar,” currently in third place, by six points.
— The victory over “Polesie” (2:1) in the last round has brought “Alexandria” one step closer to historic success. Is the team charged for the last three matches?
— Of course. All remaining games will be finals for us. We really want to stay where we are.
— You’re not looking higher?
— Here you need to dream a little, so that we win everything, and Dynamo stumbles, and not just once. That’s something out of the realm of fantasy.
— What is the key to the success of the current “Alexandria”?
— There isn’t just one factor. First and foremost, it’s the work of the coaching staff. I believe we have a good selection of players and the team is united. On the field, we always go out with the mindset — one for all and all for one.
— In the current championship, you have suffered only two defeats. What was the most difficult match for you as a defender for “Alexandria”?
— Probably the quarterfinal match of the Ukrainian Cup against “Shakhtar.” This match was tough in terms of physical strength. I believe “Alexandria” looked pretty good. It was disappointing, of course, to lose in extra time.
— Who do you currently consider to be the strongest defender in the UPL?
— I won’t name just one, but I will highlight the Dynamo defense, which has conceded the fewest goals.
— And which attacking players would you highlight?
— Vanat is good. He’s fast, it’s very difficult to keep track of him. I would also point out Eginaldo, who, besides speed, also has great technique.
— Ahead is a match with “Karpaty.” Is this the toughest of the remaining opponents?
— It’s hard to say. “Karpaty” looks strong now and shows results. However, “Veres” is also a challenging opponent, not to mention “Chornomorets,” which is desperately trying to maintain its place in the Premier League.
Sergey Boychenko