Former defender of the Ukrainian national team Sergey Popov admitted that he does not expect anything positive for the Ukrainian national team in today’s match against the French team in the 2026 World Cup qualifying tournament.
Sergey Popov. Photo — D. Rudenko— Sergey Alexandrovich, what are your expectations for the match against France?
— I want to see quality football from both teams. There should be tension, a fight until the last second of the match.
— Is it possible in its best form when the teams are under pressure to deliver results?
— That’s why great players play, to showcase their best qualities. I hope for that, but we’ll see how it turns out. (Smiles).
— Nevertheless, the «blue and yellows» will surely have to defend a lot. How can they effectively do it against such fast and technical performers as, for example, Bradley Barcola, Kylian Mbappe?
— It’s important to recognize that it’s very difficult, but possible. It’s no wonder Sergey Rebrov has so many defenders at his disposal (nine — editor’s note). Perhaps the coach has a plan.
— The Ukrainian team will be missing Oleksandr Zinchenko, Artem Dovbyk due to injuries. How will this affect the potential of our team?
— There were times when Zinchenko and Dovbyk were on the bench, so from a gameplay perspective, I wouldn’t say it’s a disaster. However, in the dressing room, these experienced players could have supported the team.
— Does this also apply to Yarmolenko, who wasn’t called up at all?
— Certainly. Andriy is probably the most authoritative Ukrainian football player right now.
— Sergey Rebrov said he’s not thinking about the match with Iceland, which could be decisive for Ukraine. Is the coach being disingenuous?
— Perhaps. He keeps it in mind, but first, we need to play against France because it’s still unknown what personnel we will have by November 16th. This concerns injuries and disqualifications. Therefore, it’s pointless to make predictions in advance.
— It would be preferable not to lose. Would this be a sensation?
— Yes. A draw with France would be a bonus for Ukraine. We need to realistically assess our strengths because we’re somewhat in different weight categories. Therefore, strategy should be developed without relying on these bonuses. (Smiles). But even a loss can benefit our team. Like in 2023, in the match against Italy (1:2). The «blue and yellows» played an excellent match then. And later, this self-confidence helped Sergey Rebrov’s team to go on an unbeaten run and reach the final part of the European Championship.
— Is a sensation possible in Baku?
— Why not? On paper, Iceland is stronger than Azerbaijan, but football is interesting because of its unpredictability. Why shouldn’t the Azerbaijanis show themselves in this particular match? I’m sure the hosts will make every effort to redeem themselves for the humiliating defeat in Reykjavik (0:5), and at the same time, help Ukraine. (Smiles).
— Our match with France is set to start about an hour after the end of the Azerbaijan — Iceland match. Could Sergey Rebrov make any adjustments for his players?
— I wouldn’t rule it out. Any information about the opponent is useful. This could provide some support for the «blue and yellows» before heading to «Parc des Princes».
— What is your prediction for the France — Ukraine match?
— I’m not a fan of making predictions. But let’s hope for a surprise draw.
Sergey Demyanchuk
