Dynamo defender Taras Mykhavko in an exclusive interview for the club’s official website shared his expectations for the upcoming Ukrainian Premier League match against Shakhtar.
– Few days have already passed since the historic match against Kryvbas. Have you recovered from it?
– Of course, we have recovered, because we have the “Classico” ahead. While traveling after the game and the next day we analyzed the match against Kryvbas and then started preparing for the clash with Shakhtar.
– First there was the match against Kryvbas and now the game against Shakhtar. How difficult is it to maintain mental and physical strength during such a stretch?
– Yes, it’s not an easy period but we have to prepare for every match regardless of the opponent. Our task is to go out and win. In my opinion a tough schedule should actually motivate us even more to perform positively.
– What does the Dynamo - Shakhtar rivalry mean to you personally?
– Matches against Shakhtar are a derby, the “Classico,” as they say. These games are always principled regardless of the standings. It always feels like a final. So we understand the importance of the match and are preparing accordingly.
– There are players in the team who haven’t yet played against Shakhtar at the senior level. How do you and your teammates explain the importance of this match to them?
– Guys have played against Shakhtar at youth level and those games are also intense. But matches between senior teams of Dynamo and Shakhtar are completely different, and they understand that. More experienced players also help and emphasize how important this match is.
– Did you watch Shakhtar’s match against Crystal Palace in the Conference League? What can you say about your upcoming opponent?
– Yes, I watched that game. Shakhtar are a strong team and Crystal Palace are from a top league. We analyzed what we need to do and how we need to play.
