Ukrainian national team goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk shared his thoughts with «vZbirna» on the World Cup 2026 qualifiers against France and Iceland.
Dmytro Riznyk— Crucial matches against France and Iceland are ahead. Is the team feeling tension or focus?
— I would say complete focus. Yes, there is some tension, but it is work-related. We understand that we need to focus on our game and execute what the coach requires of us.
— Karavayev has returned to the team. Who is the leader in the locker room now?
— We don’t have individual «leaders.» We are all together — one team, one collective. Everyone supports each other.
— What is Sergei Rebrov’s main message right now?
— That everything depends solely on us. The result is in our hands and feet. If we give our all on the field — everything will work out.
— New faces are constantly appearing in the team. How do you help newcomers adapt?
— We have a warm atmosphere. New guys are not from the street, most are from the «youth team.» They are well-received and quickly integrated.
— How do you relax after intense matches?
— The best relaxation is family. And sometimes I play Counter-Strike. It helps to distract.
— What was the last movie or series you watched?
— «Lupin.» Really liked it, by the way, it’s about France.
— Did you have a chance to explore France a bit?
— Yes, on the first day upon arrival, we walked with the guys, looked around the city. It’s very beautiful.
— With whom would you like to swap lives for one day — not a footballer?
— Probably with Donald Trump (laughs). I would immediately sign a lend-lease and shake things up!
— Which national team call-up do you remember the most?
— The first one. I played for the «youth team» at «Obolon Arena,» and after the game they said, «You’re going to the national team.» It was incredible.
— How do you feel about the competition among goalkeepers?
— Completely calm. It’s normal. If you’re not playing — you need to work even harder. We are friends, joke, and support each other.
— France is ahead. How do you prepare for such an opponent?
— The main thing is emotionally. It’s practically the final of the qualifiers. We need to be as prepared as possible. France has top-level players, but we have our own goals, too.
— How to stop Mbappe?
— Only with team actions. He is a player who can decide a match on his own, so we need to act cohesively in defense.
— Psychologically, which match is more difficult — with France or Iceland?
— We’ll see by the result. If everything goes well with France, then it will be easier with Iceland. But it all depends on psychology.
— How many points are needed for the playoffs?
— I don’t know exactly, but we are aiming for the maximum.
— And what would you like to say to the fans before these matches?
— Support us and believe until the end. We will do everything to give you positive emotions.
