The head coach of Odesa’s “Chornomorets” Oleksandr Kucher shared his impressions from the final match of the group stage of the U-21 Euro 2025 Netherlands U-21 — Ukraine U-21 (2:0).
Oleksandr Kucher— It feels like we went onto the pitch wanting to preserve a draw. But if you go into the game with such thoughts, it is already evident that a defeat is forthcoming. We saw that there were a lot of defensive errors. Of course, when the score was already 2:0, our players tried to create something, but it was clear that the Dutch were already playing for the result.
— When do you think the turning point in this game was? Was it not when the Dutch scored their second goal?
— I think it happened when the score was 1:0. Our "youth team" took a hit caused by defensive mistakes. After that, the guys found it hard to regroup. We understand that the Dutch U-21 national team, despite the young age of the players, has a high class.
Although we also have a very strong squad, as all of them play for teams competing in higher divisions of various countries. There are none among us who represent the first or second league. A certain level exists among our players, as they play abroad.
Today’s result is all the more disappointing. Like many people, I watched this match and cheered for the youth team. Of course, we wanted more, but in decisive matches, we end up as always: we cannot achieve the result we need.
— Do you agree with the opinion that the most noticeable player in the youth national team was Maxim Bragar?
— I don’t want to single out anyone in particular. But if we talk specifically about Bragar, he’s doing well. It is evident that the person wants to play football and gives everything in every game, showing his level.
Andrii Pysarenko
