Legendary former Kyiv Dynamo defender Oleh Kuznetsov shared his expectations for the final match of the 6th round of the group stage qualifying tournament for the 2026 World Cup, Ukraine vs. Iceland, which will take place today in Warsaw.
Oleh KuznetsovAbout the Ukraine vs. Iceland match
— The match will be more closed, with both teams probing each other’s weak points from the first minutes.
I agree that Ukraine is the favorite. I favor our team in a percentage ratio of 60 to 40. We have a more interesting lineup compared to the Icelanders. Moreover, we will be playing at our home field, with many Ukrainians living in Warsaw.
I predict a 2:1 victory for Ukraine.
On the Ukrainian team’s semi-reserve lineup against France
— This decision was made by the head coach, and on Sunday we will see if it was justified. In the match against France, Rebrov practically didn’t risk anything except the opinion of the fans and experts. If Ukraine beats Iceland, then the match against France will be forgotten.
On the injuries of Dovbyk and Sudakov
— Of course, these are significant losses, as they play in strong European clubs, even though Dovbyk is currently not a regular at Roma. Sudakov is scoring for Benfica, he is well regarded by the press in Portugal, and Mourinho and the fans are satisfied with him. Regardless, Rebrov will find a replacement for them.
On Zinchenko’s absence
— Over the past year, I don’t consider Zinchenko to be an undisputed starter for the national team of Ukraine. He didn’t play at Arsenal, and now Nottingham Forest can’t find a place for him on the field. Malinovskyi is a head above him.
On the leader in the Ukraine vs. Iceland match
— There must be leaders in each line. In goalkeeping — Trubin, in defense — Zabarnyi, in the holding position — Kalyuzhnyi, in midfield — Malinovskyi. Leaders are not appointed; players themselves must take on this role.
On the choice of forward between Vanat and Yaremchuk
— It’s unlikely that Rebrov will dare to play from the start with two forwards. I think, from the first minutes, we will see Yaremchuk. Roman is more physical than Vanat, and in this match, we will need to hold onto the ball and win aerial duels. And in the second half, Vanat will come on as a substitute.
Andriy Piskun
