Alexander Kosenko: “In the Czech Republic we want to review the nearest reserve. Interesting to check it with such a rival »

29.01.2019 18:18

Photo by Pavlo Kubanov

Futsal head coach of Ukraine Oleksandr Kosenko told the latest news about the preparation of the blue-yellows for the matches with the Czech Republic.

Our team now is in the Czech Republic, where in the near future will hold two sparring matches with the local team. The first match will take place today in the city of Chrudim (starting - at 19.30 in Kyiv), the second - tomorrow in the city of Kutna Hora (21.15).

On the eve of the match, the mentor of blue and yellow Alexander Kosenko gave interview with the Futsal Association of Ukraine, in which he talked about the preparation of the wards and shared his plans for the team.

— How do you evaluate the future contender?

- This is a team of the proper level. The Czech national team consists of athletic players who work well with the ball. They have athletic audacity and are always focused on winning every martial art. One of the advantages of the Czechs is a successful drawing of standards and teamwork, as three or four performers are called from several clubs at once, which contributes to their mutual understanding on the floor. No wonder they drew 5: 5 with Russia, twice beating the Dutch at home. This indicates the level of our rivals.

— Many players of the Czech national team are known by our team captain Dmitry Litvinenko. Did you consult with him about this?

- Yes, there was a small conversation, but we will leave details in secret.

— This time the national team will hold its matches in different cities. Is this a working moment or a certain inconvenience, given the relocation and possibly different coverage of the sites?

- I don't see anything terrible in it. Everything is absolutely normal. All are on equal terms.

— To fight with the Czech Republic caused mainly by young players. Tell us why you made the decision.

- We want to see the nearest reserve. It is interesting to check it with such an opponent. 

— When will the Ukrainian national team hold its next home game?

- We always try to play in Ukraine. For example, in 2017 we played matches only at home. Last year we were to host Portugal in Zaporizhia, but for objective reasons were forced to play on the opponent's court. Negotiations are now underway to meet Croatia in Ukraine in April. 

— About nine months remain before the official matches. Tell us what preparation plan the team will have before qualifying matches for the 2020 World Cupwhat will Ukraine accept?

- We will prepare through training camps and friendly matches. Now we are looking for a rival for the autumn period. There are different options, but I would not like to voice them, as there is no final confirmation yet.