The coaching staff and players of the Ukraine national football team are focused on the upcoming match and are trying not to dwell on the tense moments of past encounters. Ahead of an important showdown with the national team of Hungary, representatives of the team held a press conference where they answered the sharpest questions from journalists.
Attitude Toward the Past Incident and Clash
One of the main questions addressed to the coaching staff was the mass clash that occurred at the end of the previous match between the teams. The Ukrainian national team emphasized that they do not view this emotional episode as an additional motivational factor. Both within the coaching staff and among the players, there is an understanding that passions on the pitch remain within the bounds of sporting competition.
As team coach Andrea Maldera noted, what happened is part of the football process, which completely ends with the referee's final whistle. Representatives of the Ukrainian national team expressed respect for their Hungarian opponents and noted the excellent stadium conditions, stressing that personal grievances are not carried over into the new game.
Personnel Losses and Players' Fitness
In addition to discussing non-football matters, serious attention was paid to personnel problems within the Blue-Yellow squad. The coaching staff faces the need to find replacements due to injuries and illnesses among several key players before stepping onto the pitch.
In particular, Bohdan Mykhaylichenko's participation is in doubt due to a recent cold, Oleksandr Zubkov has back pain and a decision on him will be made on the morning of the match, and Mykola Shaparenko has leg issues. It was previously reported that Heorhiy Sudakov will not play against Hungary.
Mood for Victory and Expectations from the Game
Despite personnel difficulties, the national team players maintain a fighting spirit and optimism. Midfielder Viktor Tsygankov stated that the team approaches the game with the same enthusiasm and is aimed exclusively at a positive result to please their dedicated fans.
