Today, the Ukraine national football team will play their second match in the international tournament in Canada — against New Zealand. Former player of the Ukraine national team Yaroslav Khoma shared who he considers the favorite of the confrontation in Toronto:
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— Currently, the impression of the performance by Sergey Rebrov’s team in Toronto is mixed. Moreover, I was personally shocked by the unprofessionalism of the Ukrainian national team in the opening match against the hosts. It seems that the players just gathered after a vacation and are still mentally on holiday in warm places. But the players were well aware of the upcoming international break, which would be filled with participation in the Canadian tournament. That’s why they should have ensured that their game condition was good. However, the match against the hosts was a complete disappointment, especially with the presence of representatives of the Ukrainian diaspora who passionately supported the guests.
— Besides psychological issues, what else didn’t you like in the actions of the Ukrainian national team?
— I think the attitude was also not up to par. Unfortunately, there is a group of players in the Ukrainian national team who consider themselves untouchable, as if no matter how they performed, their place in the starting lineup is secure. Of course, this approach negatively affects balance.
Secondly, I am surprised by the stubbornness with which coach Sergey Rebrov consistently entrusts the left midfield to Heorhiy Sudakov, even though the "miner" performs much more effectively in the "eight" or "ten" positions.
— How do you assess the chances of the Ukrainian national team to rehabilitate themselves in the match against the New Zealanders?
— I have already read comments from some fans that Ukrainian footballers lost to the Canadian "hockey players," and that they won’t stand a chance in the match against the New Zealand "rugby players." I understand the fans’ disappointment, but now everyone has learned to play football, there are no easy opponents. Those Canadians are well-trained, focused on attack, confident in their abilities, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they loudly announce themselves at the World Cup next year.
As for the match against the New Zealanders, if it were up to me, I would trust a starting place to those players who did not play against the Canadians. Let them prove their professionalism. As we know, the New Zealanders are supporters of the English style and there is no doubt that there will be a lot of fighting, so our players need to show resilience and the ability to win duels. Therefore, much will depend on motivation and individual skill. I consider the Ukrainians the favorites.
Andrii Pysarenko
