Famous Ukrainian coach Yuriy Virt shared his thoughts regarding Donetsk 'Shakhtar' playing yesterday’s match against Warsaw 'Legia' (1:2) in the second round of the overall stage of the Conference League with a mixed lineup: 'Miners' head coach Arda Turan made 11 substitutions compared to the previous match — against 'Polissya' (0:0) in the Ukrainian championship.
— Two to three hours before the start of the game, I definitely expected a win for 'Shakhtar', but when I saw the starting lineup, I immediately had doubts about it. I didn’t understand Turan’s priorities...
’Shakhtar' didn’t deserve, didn’t play for a win. A draw would have looked more fair, but the goal in the final seconds was a shock for the Donetsk team, and there was no time to catch up. I caught myself thinking that it seemed like some different 'Shakhtar' was playing... As if during Pusic’s second season at the helm of the 'Miners'.
— What did you mean when you mentioned Turan’s priorities? Are you referring to the fact that the 'Miners' have two consecutive matches against Kyiv 'Dynamo' ahead, and for Arda, success in the domestic arena is more important: in the Ukrainian Cup and UPL?
— Also that, but first 'Shakhtar' still has to play with 'Kudrivka' in the tenth round of the UPL, let’s not forget. However, yes, I repeat, perhaps Turan is already thinking about the matches with 'Dynamo'...
But, you know, there is also an advantage in the Turkish coach’s decision for 'Shakhtar'. He gave playing practice in the European competitions to players who have little of it. However, with such a lineup for good results.
Viktor Glukhensky