Ukrainian coach Mykola Tsymbal made a prediction for the October matches of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, in which Serhiy Rebrov’s team will play against Iceland and Azerbaijan.
“In my opinion, one of the levers for successful performances is the microclimate in the team, which helps prepare the players to perform beyond their capabilities.
I don’t know if the information about coach Serhiy Rebrov’s readiness to leave the national team for a contract with the Greek 'Panathinaikos', which was actively discussed in the press, was true, but it definitely did not help the cohesion of the guys in achieving their goal: securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Moreover, as if to make matters worse, several of our key players ended up in the infirmary. Their absence on October 10 in Reykjavik will be felt. That is why, despite all the efforts, the Ukrainians will have to settle for a draw (1:1) against the Icelanders.
As for the clash with Azerbaijan in Krakow, it will go on without any unforeseen circumstances. The nominal hosts will prevail (2:0). The fate of the second place in the group, which will allow continuing the battle for a World Cup spot, will be decided in the final qualifying matches,” Tsymbal said.