Today, the youth national team of Ukraine (U-20) will play its second match in the World Championship, which is taking place in Chile. In their first game, the charges of Dmytro Mykhailenko defeated South Korea 2:1. Next up is Panama. Former head coach of the youth national team of Ukraine Sergey Kovalev spoke about the performance of the «blue-yellow» team in this tournament and the prospects for the upcoming match.
Sergey Kovalev
— Sergey Ivanovich, the Ukrainian national team started the World Championship with a victory. Is this already half the battle?
— Indeed. A successful start to any endeavor gives confidence for the future in terms of psychology. The victory over South Korea is worth a lot. We won against a high-level team. However, there is another side to the coin. It is important that this success does not play a cruel joke on the team. In today’s game against Panama, it is crucial that the opponent is not underestimated.
— What did you like about the actions of the Ukrainians in the confrontation with the Koreans?
— I liked the game itself, which was quite intense. The «blue-yellows» started the match without any warm-up, which allowed them to score two quick goals. Overall, the first half was played almost flawlessly. However, in the second half, to be honest, we also had luck on our side. The players of the Ukrainian national team said that at times they played to hold the score. Therefore, I do not want a similar situation to repeat itself in the upcoming match.
— In a parallel match of our group, Paraguay defeated Panama. Was this expected?
— Basically, yes. Although the Paraguayans only managed to turn the tide in their favor in the stoppage time. If Panama lost to the opponent on the game, it was by only a little.
— Does the next match against the same Panama become crucial, considering that it will be the last chance for the opponent to catch up to the playoffs, while a victory for us guarantees advancement to the Round of 16?
— One hundred percent. Most likely, there will be rotation in the Ukrainian national team because the tournament is fast-paced, and games are held every three days. Therefore, the guys who will go out on the field must understand that they cannot relax for a minute. The victory over the Koreans should help the Ukrainian national team psychologically.
At the same time, the opponent understands perfectly that for them, this match is essentially decisive. Panama will put everything on the line. It is important for our team to take first place, as this could lead to facing an opponent who finished third in their group. And that increases the chances of advancing to the quarter-finals.
— What is your prediction for the match Panama — Ukraine?
— I believe that the «blue-yellows» will continue their winning streak in this tournament and win with a score of 3:1.
— Based on your prediction, will we avoid a nervous finish?
— They are still young and instability is common for them, but the team quality, based on what I saw in the games of both opponents, is higher in our national team. That’s what I rely on. The experience from the last game should give the charges of Dmytro Mykhailenko a boost to play more confidently.
Sergey Demyanchuk
