Today, on June 11th, the blue-and-yellow team will play another match in the UEFA Nations League-2022/2023. In Łódź, Poland, Ukraine's national team will face Armenia (kick-off at 4 PM Kyiv time).

Yesterday, under the guidance of Oleksandr Petrakov, the players conducted a pre-match training session on the local LKS stadium. National team defender Valeri Bondar recalled his previous visit to Łódź.

"Very good memories because it was here that we trained before the U-20 World Cup final. Of course, this place reminds me of how we won there. I walked around where we were and strolled through the park."

When we came here last time, there was only the central stand at the stadium. It's pleasant to see that they've built such a stadium now. I think a large number of spectators will come to the match, especially our people. This will motivate us greatly to win.

Regarding the previous match, there was concern because Ireland is a very good team. For the first 15-20 minutes, the hosts pressed us strongly and put pressure on us from their side. We had to play securely in defense, which we did, following all the coach's instructions for this game. I think we managed it well since we achieved a result. The position where I played is usual for me. If we play with four or five defenders, that's great for me. Gradually, I felt more confident.

I am confident in the team; the coach is confident too. Let all supporters be confident in us because we will show two hundred percent effort from one hundred," — said Bondar.