Vitaliy Odegov: “They planned to qualify for the semi-finals at Euro. Unfortunately, we failed to do this ... "

14.09.2019 17:10

Photo of FAU press service

The head coach of the Futsal youth team of Ukraine Vitaliy Odegov commented on the performance of his team at the European Championship.

The Blue and Yellows took part in the European U-19 Youth Futsal Championship, which is being held in Latvia. Unfortunately, they failed to get to the semifinals because defeat Croatia in the last round of the group stage.

After returning home, team coach Vitaly Odegov gave an interview to Futsal Association of Ukraine press service.

—Vitaliy Oleksiyovych, summarize the results of the youth team of Ukraine at Euro-2019 in Latvia.

- Before the tournament, we planned to leave the group and qualify for the semifinals. Unfortunately, we were unable to do so. The 2019 European Championship has shown that the current level of training of our youth is insufficient to solve serious problems.

— Did the 1: 7 defeat by the Spanish national team affect the team's situation in the match against the Croats?

- Defeat with such a score forced us to play with the Balkans only to win. The opponent had enough draws. This could affect the chosen strategy for the Croatian national team. The Croats allowed themselves to play indoor futsal, they acted as the second number, hoping for counterattacks. Of course, the special status of this meeting was felt, there was excitement. However, psychologically we were ready to win.

— What was not enough for the team to develop the lead after Denis Blanco's goal? Maybe the guys relaxed a little, believing in success too early?

- On that day, everyone worked with proper concentration and dedication throughout the match. The goal gave us confidence, and we tried to develop our advantage. Unfortunately, this could not be done. In turn, the Croats were able to realize the small number of moments they created in three goals.

— Why did you involve a rather limited number of players in this match?

- At such a crucial moment, it was necessary to use proven fighters who managed to prove themselves. They were more psychologically stable and more skillful. They managed to justify their stay on the site. I think we faced the opponent with dignity in this match.

— The match with the Croats U-19 Ukraine national team has completed its two-year journey. What emotions do you experience now?

- Of course, there is a share of the amount. I would like to end this journey on a more positive wave. Indeed, when you work with people for a certain period of time, you have a lot in common with them. While working with this team, I left in it a part of myself, my emotions, love, care. I hope I managed to teach the guys something new.

— Have you made plans for future work with the U-17 youth team? What will be her first steps?

- We already have certain plans and agreements. At the beginning of next year we are going to hold friendly matches with the national team of Portugal. Now we will plan the cycle of preparation in more detail: holding meetings, friendly matches. Euro 2019 is not over yet, so we are still waiting for the dates of the qualifying matches and the final part of the next championship. After that, you can build the final schedule of your training.