Volodymyr Lysenko: 'What changed in the second half? 'Dynamo' became themselves'

The Dynamo Kyiv academy graduate Volodymyr Lysenko commented on Football Hub about the 'white and blues' victory over Donetsk Shakhtar in the Ukrainian Cup.

Volodymyr Lysenko

What are your impressions of the match?

— A true derby, a final! Incredible emotions. The first half belonged to Shakhtar, the second to Dynamo. The score favors Dynamo, and they move forward.

Did Dynamo really endure the first half?

— Yes, Shakhtar completely dominated in the first 45 minutes: pressing, density between the lines. Dynamo almost created no chances. One shot from Kabayev — that’s too little.

What changed after conceding the goal?

— Dynamo became themselves. They began to press, create chances, and scored two goals.

Was the key moment Yarmolenko’s goal?

— Definitely. Yarmolenko asked for a substitution, but scored two minutes before it. He’s a leader, made a crucial contribution, changed the flow of the game. Then Guerrero scored the second.

Did Shakhtar get tired in the second half?

— Yes, they expended too much strength in the first 45 minutes. They wanted to score in the first half. If they had converted their chances — the game would have been different. The goalkeeper saved Dynamo.

How do you rate Guerrero’s appearance?

— Wonderful. He came on and scored his goal, leading the team to the quarter-finals. Forwards from both teams played great today.

Is the victory over Shakhtar before the UPL match in Lviv an advantage?

— Dynamo showed character and moved forward. Shakhtar now have nothing to lose, they need to show their game in the championship for not just one half, but two.

Will this victory add motivation to Dynamo in European competitions?

— I believe so. It’s a big psychological boost. Fans will support, and the team will try to show quality play and results in European competitions.

Who stood out in Shakhtar?

— I liked Kevin. Their entire attack line — the forward and the infielders — worked well in the first half: one-on-one and behind the defenses. But that was enough for only 50 minutes.

Was Brajko’s substitution successful?

— Definitely. His appearance at halftime changed the game. He started picking up balls, playing forward. Interactions began, and Dynamo created chances. It was a very successful tactical decision.