I’m proud of the mentality the team showed
Friday, July 11, 2025
|
Shakhtar midfielder Pedrinho shared his thoughts on the crushing victory over Ilves (6-0) in the UEFA Europa League
– Pedrinho, that was an incredible match from Shakhtar. What do you feel and how would you analyse the game?
– Absolutely, incredible emotions right now. It’s hard to even find the words. I’m really proud of the mentality the team showed and our determination to fight for the result we needed. We truly gave everything until the final whistle, which the late goals clearly reflect.
– Did you manage to carry out all the instructions from Arda Turan? And what were his key messages before the match?
– Mister is always fully engaged throughout the 90 minutes and completely focused on every moment. He made one thing clear, both in the dressing room and just before kickoff: 1-0 or 2-0 will never be enough for us. He also demands total intensity and commitment when we step onto the pitch. I believe we truly managed to meet that demand – not just in terms of the score, but also in the way the game unfolded and how successfully we imposed our style on the opponents.
– It’s been quite a while since you last scored in a European matches. Can you take us through that moment and tell us what it means to you?
– Of course, it’s a very important moment for me and it feels great to score at a time like this. But first and foremost, I always put the team’s goals ahead of my own. If I don’t score but Shakhtar wins, I’ll gladly take that outcome every time. At the same time, I’m obviously very happy to have scored. I always try to look for my chances and make the most of them. I’m glad I was able to convert the opportunities that came my way.
– It was your close friend Alisson who assisted you. It was an incredible match for him overall. How would you describe the understanding you two have on the pitch?
– I’m absolutely thrilled for him. He had an outstanding game. I think we really do have some kind of chemistry, a strong connection. Ever since we played together back in Brazil, we’ve been close friends. There’s a level of understanding between us, both on and off the pitch. I’m genuinely happy for him. He’s a high-quality player and today he showed that perfectly. I’m convinced this is just the beginning. Over the course of the season, he can bring a lot to this team.
– And finally, what did the head coach say to the team after such a brilliant performance?
– Of course, he began his speech with a greeting. He emphasised how difficult it is to score six goals in one match. He highlighted the effort we put in and sincerely thanked us for the level of commitment and desire we showed on the pitch. He lifted the mood, which was already very high.
– Absolutely, incredible emotions right now. It’s hard to even find the words. I’m really proud of the mentality the team showed and our determination to fight for the result we needed. We truly gave everything until the final whistle, which the late goals clearly reflect.
– Did you manage to carry out all the instructions from Arda Turan? And what were his key messages before the match?
– Mister is always fully engaged throughout the 90 minutes and completely focused on every moment. He made one thing clear, both in the dressing room and just before kickoff: 1-0 or 2-0 will never be enough for us. He also demands total intensity and commitment when we step onto the pitch. I believe we truly managed to meet that demand – not just in terms of the score, but also in the way the game unfolded and how successfully we imposed our style on the opponents.
– It’s been quite a while since you last scored in a European matches. Can you take us through that moment and tell us what it means to you?
– Of course, it’s a very important moment for me and it feels great to score at a time like this. But first and foremost, I always put the team’s goals ahead of my own. If I don’t score but Shakhtar wins, I’ll gladly take that outcome every time. At the same time, I’m obviously very happy to have scored. I always try to look for my chances and make the most of them. I’m glad I was able to convert the opportunities that came my way.
– It was your close friend Alisson who assisted you. It was an incredible match for him overall. How would you describe the understanding you two have on the pitch?
– I’m absolutely thrilled for him. He had an outstanding game. I think we really do have some kind of chemistry, a strong connection. Ever since we played together back in Brazil, we’ve been close friends. There’s a level of understanding between us, both on and off the pitch. I’m genuinely happy for him. He’s a high-quality player and today he showed that perfectly. I’m convinced this is just the beginning. Over the course of the season, he can bring a lot to this team.
– And finally, what did the head coach say to the team after such a brilliant performance?
– Of course, he began his speech with a greeting. He emphasised how difficult it is to score six goals in one match. He highlighted the effort we put in and sincerely thanked us for the level of commitment and desire we showed on the pitch. He lifted the mood, which was already very high.