National team of Ukraine defender Vitaliy Mykolenko participated in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the 2026 World Cup qualifying match France vs. Ukraine, which will take place tomorrow in Paris.
— Vitaliy, two decisive matches ahead. What is the current mood in the team — tension or concentration?
— We just gathered the day before yesterday, and there is little time before the game. There is no tension, but everyone understands the responsibility. The mood is positive, yet everyone is fully focused because important matches for the country lie ahead.
— How not to overestimate France and enter the match without fear?
— There is no fear, only respect for the opponent. We understand that France is a top national team, but they are players just like us. We will play relying on our strengths.
— We saw that you started performing long throw-ins at your club. Is this an element you plan to use in the national team as well?
— We haven’t discussed it yet, but there’s a trend like that in the Premier League now. I can throw the ball even into the penalty area, so perhaps we will use this option.
— Taras Stepanenko said that in matches of this level, you need to be focused for all 90 minutes. Do you agree?
— Completely. Mistakes at this level can cost the result, so you need to be fully concentrated until the final whistle.