We had to win for Ukrainians
Wednesday, October 4, 2023
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Head coach of Shakhtar Patrick van Leeuwen assessed the victorious match against Antwerp (3-2)
– Can you tell us what you said to your players during the break because in the second half they entered the field in the mood of literally tearing Antwerp apart?
– First of all, I want to note that we play here not only for the local audience, but also for the Ukrainian fans who were in the stands today, for all those people who are currently in Ukraine and watched the game on TV. So, we understood that we had to win this game, primarily for them. Because they support us with all their might. And also, the small changes that were made in tactics led to goals and a positive result in the second half.
– What do you think was the difference between the first and second halves?
– We kept in mind the tactics of Antwerp. From the very beginning, we expected a slightly different game from them, but they showed such tactics, so we had to change our own approach. During the break, we used not only the mental aspect, but also the tactical aspect – and it gave us a good result.
– Now there will be an international break, the team will not play for two weeks. Maybe this is bad, because such a positive result could inspire the players for further victories?
– Our footballers will play for their national teams, and we will play practice matches, so today's result will have the same positive effect on the preparation for the next games.
– First of all, I want to note that we play here not only for the local audience, but also for the Ukrainian fans who were in the stands today, for all those people who are currently in Ukraine and watched the game on TV. So, we understood that we had to win this game, primarily for them. Because they support us with all their might. And also, the small changes that were made in tactics led to goals and a positive result in the second half.
– What do you think was the difference between the first and second halves?
– We kept in mind the tactics of Antwerp. From the very beginning, we expected a slightly different game from them, but they showed such tactics, so we had to change our own approach. During the break, we used not only the mental aspect, but also the tactical aspect – and it gave us a good result.
– Now there will be an international break, the team will not play for two weeks. Maybe this is bad, because such a positive result could inspire the players for further victories?
– Our footballers will play for their national teams, and we will play practice matches, so today's result will have the same positive effect on the preparation for the next games.