Ukrainian coach Nikolai Tsymbal assessed the potential opponents of the Ukrainian national team in the semi-final playoffs of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers — the national teams of Romania, Sweden, Northern Macedonia, and Northern Ireland.
«Probably, the fact that Ukrainians landed in a group of participants who are making it to the World Cup thanks to a successful performance in the Nations League is good. Still, in my opinion, they are inferior to our guys in class and do not yet seem insurmountable. Therefore, if the draw includes the Macedonians with their ranking position, it would be a sin to complain.
On the other hand, our team always had fewer problems with a strong opponent when maximum motivation was in play. Then it would make more sense to play against the Swedes.
And wouldn’t a match against the Romanians cause a stir? It would be an opportunity to take revenge for the defeat at the last Euros (0:3, ed.). Moreover, their coach is the well-known Mircea Lucescu.
That is why I dare not name the team I would like to see as Sergei Rebrov’s wards' opponent in March. I know for sure that it will be difficult for everyone. The winners will be those who fight to the end and manage to exceed expectations. Just like the Irish did a few days ago, who, seemingly in a hopeless situation, forced the favorites, the Hungarians, to capitulate in Budapest,» said Tsymbal.