The scoring performance gives the team confidence
Sunday, November 30, 2025
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Shakhtar U19 head coach Oleksii Bielik reflects on the win over Kryvbas U19 (6-1) and the high scoring performance
– Overall, a good performance by the team. During the week-long training cycle, we worked on our actions, and I can say that Kryvbas U19 are the opponents who like to play football and keep possession, which today’s match confirmed. We knew they handle the ball well, so we emphasised the need to counter this by controlling the game and creating chances. And when the opponents have the ball, we must press more tightly and challenge for possession boldly. We managed to do that, but looking at mistakes, of course, after scoring two quick goals, we wanted to continue building on our success and not allow the opponents to create chances near our goal, as happened with the penalty awarded. However, although Kryvbas U19, like us, enjoy having the ball, in this aspect we acted more effectively and were able to convert our advantage into goals. It is also worth noting that we try to give as many players as possible playing time, using squad rotation so that the footballers feel part of the team and continue to progress.
– During the break, you had a lengthy talk with the players. What did you discuss, given that the team came out for the second half very motivated?
– I always emphasise that when we manage to score quick goals, we must not lose the initiative. Yes, for example, if the players are tired after an intense start, if their muscles are tight or their heart rate is elevated, we can switch to a moderate pace and take a short pause. But that does not mean being passive and simply watching the opponents. On the contrary, we need to rest while still blocking passing lanes, playing in contact and responding with attacks. I wouldn’t say we play poorly, but it is important to constantly control our advantage and not relax. If we take a pause, it’s not an excuse to just stay in position – we must remain active and not give the opponents the opportunity to keep possession.
– Shakhtar U19 are showing high scoring form: 14 goals in the last three matches, conceding only one. What does this say about the team and how does such a record affect their overall confidence?
– I’m very pleased that we’re able to score so many goals; it’s a positive sign. We are Shakhtar, and even though the primary objective in any match is victory, we should create plenty of chances. If we don’t, that’s not our style. High scoring definitely boosts the team’s confidence. At the same time, I want fans to understand that we are also working on our defence. Bright combinations, goals and individual actions make the game entertaining and attract supporters’ attention. The team work a lot on the final phase of attacks. I, of course, get emotional because I always want even more goals, and sometimes I joke with the boys when certain chances aren’t converted. But it’s important to realise that you can’t score every opportunity and I can’t fault the players for that.
– During the break, you had a lengthy talk with the players. What did you discuss, given that the team came out for the second half very motivated?
– I always emphasise that when we manage to score quick goals, we must not lose the initiative. Yes, for example, if the players are tired after an intense start, if their muscles are tight or their heart rate is elevated, we can switch to a moderate pace and take a short pause. But that does not mean being passive and simply watching the opponents. On the contrary, we need to rest while still blocking passing lanes, playing in contact and responding with attacks. I wouldn’t say we play poorly, but it is important to constantly control our advantage and not relax. If we take a pause, it’s not an excuse to just stay in position – we must remain active and not give the opponents the opportunity to keep possession.
– Shakhtar U19 are showing high scoring form: 14 goals in the last three matches, conceding only one. What does this say about the team and how does such a record affect their overall confidence?
– I’m very pleased that we’re able to score so many goals; it’s a positive sign. We are Shakhtar, and even though the primary objective in any match is victory, we should create plenty of chances. If we don’t, that’s not our style. High scoring definitely boosts the team’s confidence. At the same time, I want fans to understand that we are also working on our defence. Bright combinations, goals and individual actions make the game entertaining and attract supporters’ attention. The team work a lot on the final phase of attacks. I, of course, get emotional because I always want even more goals, and sometimes I joke with the boys when certain chances aren’t converted. But it’s important to realise that you can’t score every opportunity and I can’t fault the players for that.