Journalist and commentator Viktor Vatsko made a prediction for Ukraine’s November matches in the 2026 World Cup qualification.
Viktor Vatsko— If we talk about my expectations from the November matches of the Ukrainian national team, I predict that the team will finish second in the group and advance to the playoffs. I am not living in illusions — a victory over France seems unlikely. Yes, the French have many personnel losses, but even in such conditions, Deschamps' selection is simply crazy, more than enough.
Even if we sensationally defeat France, I do not believe that they will not beat Azerbaijan in the final round. Therefore, realistically speaking about the first place is utopian. Even with equal points, we are unlikely to surpass the French in goal difference.
Thus, a draw in Paris is the optimal option. It will leave Ukraine a chance for maneuver against Iceland, while the Icelanders will be under pressure and forced to take risks, which may play into our hands. And, in my view, clinging to a draw in Paris is quite realistic. The other question is at what cost this could come.
However, the key will be the second match — against Iceland. It is in such matches that the Ukrainian national team often cannot withstand the pressure. Here it is important that the head coach is not only a specialist with a whistle and stopwatch but also a psychologist, motivator, and strategist. These two November matches, in my opinion, will show what the head coach of the Ukrainian national team is really like, — said Vatsko on his author’s YouTube program.
