The second training day of the national team of Ukraine in Slovenia was marked by a transition to a twice-a-day practice schedule. Unlike the previous day, today in Brdo the sun is shining all day long, and thus, the warm weather contributes to diligent work.

Before lunch, the players had fitness training during which physical preparation coach Ivan Bashthovy offered them exercises to strengthen knee and ankle joints, which are an important preventive measure against potential injuries during game practices and matches. At the same time, footballers also performed exercises to strengthen their lower back.

Photos by the press service of the UAF

The mood was set by the head coach of the blue and yellow team, Oleksandr Petrakov, who demonstrated to the boys with his own example how one should devote oneself to work. Working together with his wards and encouraging them with friendly criticism and jokes, Oleksandr Vasylyovych achieved what he wanted: energy in the hall was simply bursting.

In the evening, as is customary, the team continued their work on the football field. Oleksandr Petrakov traditionally gathered the team in a circle, explaining the nature and purpose of today's practice. At the first stage of the gathering, it is important to hone both functional and game conditions, since due to the war, there was practically no game practice for the boys.

Photos by the press service of the UAF

After a run and warm-up, outfield players began working with balls — the boys practiced passing. Meanwhile, goalkeepers worked separately under the guidance of Vyacheslav Kernenzek. On the next stage of training, the team reunited again: passes ended in shots on goal. Thus, representatives of all positions received necessary game practice. In the final part of the session, coaches proposed a series of games during which defensive actions against attack were practiced.

Photos by the press service of the UAF

It is worth noting that Mykhailo Mudryk was also present on the field, but he performed static tension exercises for his muscles without putting strain on the part of his leg that causes him discomfort.

Tomorrow's work of the national team will continue in the same mode: morning — fitness, evening — training on the pitch.

Oleksandr Hlyvinskyi, press secretary of the national team of Ukraine