Former Kyiv Dynamo goalkeeper Volodymyr Tsytkin shared his impressions of the two recent matches of the Ukrainian national team in the 2026 World Cup qualifying tournament — against Iceland (5:3) and Azerbaijan (2:1).
— There was a lot of illogical play in these matches. Who, for example, expected such an incredible performance from the Ukrainians in Reykjavik, where almost every shot on target resulted in a goal? Did anyone predict that it would be so tough in Krakow against the Azerbaijanis? After all, they were considered the clear underdogs.
— Then how do you explain these fluctuations in these encounters?
— Our national team still lacks the mastery that would allow them to easily overcome teams like Iceland and Azerbaijan. That’s why these victories turned out to be so tough.
You know, I caught myself thinking that it would have been significantly worse if the Azerbaijanis had equalized in the second half in Krakow, rather than just before the break. At least Serhiy Rebrov’s side had time to recover, receive necessary instructions on what to do next. And coming out motivated to fight, the nominal hosts still tipped the scales in their favor.
— If there was a lot of illogical play in these matches, didn’t it affect the final results?
— I’m sure that every team will have its viewpoint. I believe that the Ukrainians were closer to victory than their opponents were to averting a loss. Although the winners also had bad spells in the game, with a lack of unpleasant errors. Let’s at least recall the first goal conceded by goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin in Reykjavik.
It is important that these matches were very informative for coach Serhiy Rebrov and his assistants. Now it is desirable to work productively on the mistakes made. This is important, as the match against Iceland on November 16 still lies ahead. It cannot be ruled out that the outcome of this match will determine the fate of second place in the group, allowing for a continuation in the playoffs for a World Cup 2026 spot.
— Do you have the least criticism for any of the Ukrainians?
— For Genoa midfielder Ruslan Malinovskyi. I once was part of the coaching staff of Ukraine’s junior national team, for which the Shakhtar academy graduate played. Even then, he stood out with high football intelligence, diligence, and unconventional actions. This helped him to progress. As for the reported encounters, Malinovskyi returned just in time after a serious injury. He confidently took on the role of leader. Respect.
— You hinted above that the intrigue in our group will disappear only after the November 16 match with Iceland. Who do you favor?
— It’s still too early to make any forecasts. Much will depend on whether competitors can field strong squads; in particular, we really want our Oleksandr Zinchenko, Heorhiy Sudakov, Viktor Tsyhankov, and Roman Yaremchuk to leave the infirmary as soon as possible, which would increase competition for a starting spot. It should also be considered that the Icelanders still have a long journey to Azerbaijan, which could affect their physical state. And finally, what if the Ukrainians don’t lose to France and win against the hosts in Baku? I repeat, logic often falls short in football.
Andriy Pisarenko