Dynamo Kyiv defender Denys Popov shared his impressions of the victory over Shakhtar Donetsk (2:1) in yesterday’s Ukrainian Cup 1/8 finals match.
Denys Popov. Photo — O. Vasilieva— Shakhtar players created difficulties for us today, plus we both have a busy schedule, so I admit it was not easy physically. But we ran and fought for 90 minutes and achieved the result.
— Why do you think Dynamo played two such different halves?
— Perhaps in the first half, we were nervous, overly focused, afraid to make a mistake. But in the second half, after conceding early, we went all out and got the result.
— What’s your opinion on the reaction of Shakhtar’s bench to the match events? It seemed they were excessively appealing to the referee in some instances?
— I could say, but such words cannot be spoken aloud. (Smiles). I have my own opinion, but I think it’s inappropriate to voice it. You all saw it. We calmly do our job, and let them shout.
— It’s noticeable that in every match against Shakhtar, you give your all on the field, are passionate, and fully «charged.» How would you comment on your game today?
— It’s hard for me to do so. One match can go perfectly, like against 'Kryvbas,' while another with a different opponent may not go well—you might be tired, or something else happens—life is unpredictable. So, my performance will be assessed by the coach. Regarding the «classic,» such matches are always crucial for us. I still remember the times when Shakhtar had serious players like Marlos, Taison, Moraes, I learned from those matches, understood how important they were, so this attitude remains even now.
— You asked for a substitution at the end of the match, how do you feel?
— I was diagnosed with a broken nose in the match against 'Kryvbas,' but they decided to involve me in the game. Now I felt a strong headache again, we’ll see how it goes. If my condition allows me to play, I’ll continue.
— Dynamo had an unsuccessful period with five consecutive draws. Now the team has achieved a big victory over 'Kryvbas' and knocked Shakhtar out of the Ukrainian Cup. Can we say that everything is getting back on track?
— Every game goes differently. I hope we’ve set on a victorious path and will continue it further. We still have another match against Shakhtar ahead, we need to prepare for it as seriously as possible, analyze it thoroughly, and know how to act. Because, indeed, in the first half, not everything went well for us, but it got better after the break.
