I’m happy with the performance, and the result is a nice bonus
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
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Shakhtar U21 head coach Oleksii Bielik commented on the win against Epicentr U21
– A good game! Regardless of the scoreline, I’m very happy for the lads because playing against footballers who train with the first team and have the opportunity to play in the UPL and First League at senior level is a good experience. If I’m not mistaken, Epicentr U21 had four or five players who were physically stronger because they are older and have experience of senior football. I’m happy for the lads that we can not only compete with such opponents, but also show our style of play. In the first half, we were in no way inferior to the older and more experienced opponents. We practically didn’t allow them to create anything near our goal, while we had chances at the other end and managed to take the lead. In the second half, the opponents’ experience and physical advantage began to show, and we played more defensively. However, this is very good experience for our players because it is in matches like these that they will develop and are likely to progress faster. I’m happy with the performance, and the result is a nice bonus. When you play and achieve success, it is easier to prepare for the next match.
– After conceding, the team immediately stepped up and managed to score a second goal. What does this show?
– An excellent reaction from the players to conceding a goal. Straight after restarting from the centre, we took control of the ball and tried to show our style of play and attack at pace. I’ll keep telling the lads: even if the opposition can bring players down from the first team to their youth side, we are still capable of attacking. We have something that sets us apart from other teams, as well as the technique and talent, so we have to make use of it.
– After conceding, the team immediately stepped up and managed to score a second goal. What does this show?
– An excellent reaction from the players to conceding a goal. Straight after restarting from the centre, we took control of the ball and tried to show our style of play and attack at pace. I’ll keep telling the lads: even if the opposition can bring players down from the first team to their youth side, we are still capable of attacking. We have something that sets us apart from other teams, as well as the technique and talent, so we have to make use of it.