It was good that we scored early
Wednesday, September 2, 2026
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Shakhtar U21 forward Yevhen Harmash reflects on the win over Polissia U21 (2-1)
– It was a very difficult match. In the first half, we underperformed in certain situations, while the opponents made good use of crosses from the flanks, although we generally won the aerial challenges. It was good that we scored early. It really gave us the impetus to keep going.
– Tell us about your early goal. Had you practised this move in training? And how did you feel when you realised you had scored?
– Before the match, the coach emphasised that we could play the ball in this way and immediately get it out to the winger. The ball was in the opponents’ half and, after winning it back, we played a combination that ended with a goal. I’m happy that it worked out that way and that I was able to help the team.
– Polissia are extremely difficult opponents for Shakhtar. Did you feel any additional responsibility and motivation?
– I don’t know why it has turned out that way, perhaps it’s just a coincidence. It’s difficult to play against all opponents. I went into the match against Polissia U21, as I do every match, focused solely on winning. I’d like to thank the coaching staff for preparing us so well.
– Shakhtar U21 took the maximum points. How do you assess this start to the season?
– The main thing is not to stop and to work even harder to achieve the desired result. We must not relax as that could cost us important points. There’s no doubt that victories boost the players’ mood and show that all the effort we put in at training sessions and matches is worthwhile.
– Tell us about your early goal. Had you practised this move in training? And how did you feel when you realised you had scored?
– Before the match, the coach emphasised that we could play the ball in this way and immediately get it out to the winger. The ball was in the opponents’ half and, after winning it back, we played a combination that ended with a goal. I’m happy that it worked out that way and that I was able to help the team.
– Polissia are extremely difficult opponents for Shakhtar. Did you feel any additional responsibility and motivation?
– I don’t know why it has turned out that way, perhaps it’s just a coincidence. It’s difficult to play against all opponents. I went into the match against Polissia U21, as I do every match, focused solely on winning. I’d like to thank the coaching staff for preparing us so well.
– Shakhtar U21 took the maximum points. How do you assess this start to the season?
– The main thing is not to stop and to work even harder to achieve the desired result. We must not relax as that could cost us important points. There’s no doubt that victories boost the players’ mood and show that all the effort we put in at training sessions and matches is worthwhile.