Oleksandr Zinchenko: “We have a very spectacular match against Portugal”

13.10.2019 21:20

Photo by Pavlo Kubanov

Together with the head coach of the national team of Ukraine Andriy Shevchenko, the midfielder of the blue and yellow Alexander Zinchenko participated in the press conference ahead of the match with Portugal.

- In the current qualifying tournament, our second paired match is traditionally weaker than the previous one. How will you take this into account on the eve of the game with Portugal?

- Really, interesting statistics. I think it's a coincidence. Every player understands our responsibility, and I see no obstacles to show the football we aspire to. Especially since we play the match at home, in a crowded stadium. We will do everything possible to please the fans.

- You probably competed a lot in training with Bernardo Silva. Who won more often?

- In fact, this is a very frivolous question (smiles). I warned Bernard to be careful, because I will tell the Ukrainian media about how he "approves" of our country. And when he gets the ball, everyone will whistle it. I think there will be double tension for him tomorrow. We've been talking to him about this game for the last few months.

Photo by Pavlo Kubanov

- In the first match, in Lisbon, Portugal may have underestimated Ukraine. Will there be additional pressure in this regard?

- There should be no pressure, because we play at home, in front of our fans. It's much easier when the 12th player pushes you forward. There is no need to say how strong the players are in Portugal. We should not be afraid, but should go out on the field and show our football.

- Cristiano Ronaldo was met by hundreds of people at the airport and near the stadium. What place does it occupy in your ranking of footballers?

- Andriy Shevchenko is also met at every airport by hundreds of people. As for Ronaldo, there is no need to explain that he is one of the best players in history. It is a great honor for any fan to see his game live. Players are also very pleased to face such a player. This is a double motivation for each of us. Tomorrow is a holiday for Ukraine, because the current European champions do not come to us every day. A very spectacular match awaits us.

- Did you pass any information to the national team's coaching staff about Bernard Silva, who also plays for Man City?

- I think that the coaching staff knows Bernard very well, because we have already played against this opponent. It has not changed since then.