Illia has told our site about the game and his debut:
- Illia, last week you made your debut for Dynamo first team in general and in euro cups. What did you feel taking the field to play the Champions League game?
- First of all it was a great responsibility, even in the game against Desna. Our only aim was to win. Before the match I was nervous, but when I took the field things got fine.
As for euro cups debut, the game against AZ also was extremely important. Every player did his best. Congratulations on victory to everyone!
- How did you cope with anxiety?
- Before the game I tried to avoid needless thoughts. When I took the field the anxiety was gone. I felt teammates’ support. Every successful action was making me more confident.
- After the game against AZ Mircea Lucescu said he believes in young players and they thank for that with decent performances. Does head coach talk to you individually?
- Sure, we feel this trust. He talks to us and tells what to do on the field.
- This was your first game alongside Mykolenko, who’s playing as centre back at the moment. Have you already found common ground?
- I guess so. It’s very comfortable and interesting to work with Vitaliy. I’d also like to mention other defenders – Kedziora and Karavayev – and the whole team. We don’t let each other lose positions.
- Haven’t AZ forward surprised you at all?
- Coaches analyzed their play in detail and explained us everything. We were totally ready for the game.
- What did Lucescu tell players after the first half?
- He said AZ would rush forward and we would get space. That’s why we had to be patient and wait for our chances. That’s what actually happened.
- Did you feel closer to victory after Rodrigues scored?
- Actually after his goal we got even more focused as 1:0 is a very narrow margin.
- Dynamo are to play two games a week. Are you ready for that considering all lineup issues?
- I think we’re ready. After every game we have reconditioning procedures. Besides we’ve had intense training camp.
- What do you think of your next Champions League opponent – KAA Gent?
- I guess it doesn’t matter to Dynamo which team we oppose. We should be focused on our performance. No matter whom we face, we’ll do our best.
Tetyana Sirenko
