Andriy Pavelko: “It was important on the Day of the Defender of Ukraine to present such victory to the country”

15.10.2019 13:07

Photo by Pavlo Kubanov

UAF President Andriy Pavelko commented on the success of Ukraine's national team in the selection of Euro-2020, and also spoke about the future of head coach of blue and yellow Andriy Shevchenko:

- We believed in victory and were preparing for such a result. I am glad that we managed to give the fans such a unique holiday.

Of course, the guys and the coaching staff are well done. It was important on such a day, Defender of Ukraine Day, to pay tribute to our fallen soldiers and those who were at the stadium. These are veterans of hostilities, families of heroes, sailors and activists released from captivity, in particular Oleg Sentsov. I think their strong energy was passed on to our players and gave them strength.

Before the start of qualification, there was a strong pressure on UAF. Many did not believe in Andriy Shevchenko's coaching talent. But the result showed that everything was done correctly. I knew and was sure that everything would work out for Shevchenko, although I felt pressure from journalists who questioned the decision to appoint him. Well done Andrew, I'm glad for him.

Photo by Pavlo Kubanov

- When did you realize that in the match with Portugal you will be able to win?

- Before you ordered the fireworks that you saw after the match at the NSC "Olympic".

- Won't you let Shevchenko go to Milan?

- Andriy Shevchenko and I went through a lot together. In the near future we will discuss and together decide what is best for him and for the national team of Ukraine. But now the thoughts are only about the Euro, he is the head coach of the team.

Photo by Pavlo Kubanov

- What tasks will the team face at the European Championship?

- We will not run ahead. We will solve the problem step by step. The team improves its game with each match, and the fans see and celebrate it well.