Shakhtar vs Debreceni: players’ opinions

Taras Stepanenko, Shakhtar midfielder:

- We played for the third spot in the tournament against pretty good opponents. The Hungarians knew that Shakhtar practise some pacey and fluid football, and they knew that they shouldn’t expose themselves no matter what to prevent many goals. Therefore, Debreceni tried to operate more tightly in their half, constantly looking for counterattacking opportunities and converting one of them. Even then we were fully in control of the game, created many chances and could have claimed a major win. We just didn’t convert all our chances. Any athlete, any team always want to win, no matter whether the game is competitive or friendly. Even more so as we are preparing for major encounters with Celta, and the victory gives us confidence.

Ismaily, Shakhtar defender:

- Today it was not our easiest match – we were counteracted by an aggressive team again. The first half was very good: we dominated possession, creating many chances and focusing on converting them. But the opponents just parked the bus, with little space remaining to make it past the defenders and score a goal. It’s good that we still managed to net two goals and win it. That’s really delightful. As for my fitness, I missed six days of the training camp, perhaps, still being at a different level compared to the other players. At the same time, Mister has given me more time on the field today, and I can say that I feel great both physically and tactically. But I think I still need some more time to rediscover my form and catch up with the teammates. The most important thing for us is getting ready for the Europa League, not to slow the pace and just step it up with every game.