Dynamo midfielder Mykola Mykhailenko shared his impressions in the mixed zone after the Matchday 26 game of the Ukrainian Premier League against Shakhtar (1:2).
– It’s disappointing to lose such an important match because throughout the game we had enough chances to win or at least secure a draw.
– In the first half Dynamo controlled the game. Were you surprised that the opponent gave up the initiative so easily?
– The coaching staff chose right tactics so we waited for our opportunities. We had good counterattacks and positional attacks. Unfortunately we didn’t manage to convert more of our chances.
– Matvii Ponomarenko scored an incredible goal in the first half. Could you imagine him attempting a shot from the center of the field?
– Seeing such a shot from him is not surprising. He’s capable of it. If you had asked me who could take such a shot, I would have said without hesitation that it would be Matvii.
– You only recently recovered from an injury. Was it physically difficult today?
– Yes, since I trained with the team for only one day and had to play right away. It was tough but such situations happen.
– Dynamo won most of the second balls in the first half but the situation changed after the break. Did the quick conceded goal affect concentration?
– I wouldn’t agree. It’s football, it happens. Teams can exchange dominance and initiative during the match. And sometimes the result is decided by a single moment.
– Is the team now fully focused on the Ukrainian Cup final?
– We are determined to keep fighting in the Premier League as well. We need to play the remaining league matches with dignity, aiming for victories.
– The team received strong support from fans today, especially the passionate welcome of your bus at the stadium. What would you like to say to supporters?
– We are very grateful to all fans for their support today. They stay with us until the end and support us even despite disappointing results. And finally I want to say: Glory to the Armed Forces of Ukraine and Glory to Ukraine!
