Yesterday, the national team of Ukraine conducted their first full day of training at the Warsaw stadium "Polonia" as part of preparations for the final round of the 2022/2023 Nations League. The progress of the sessions was commented on by goalkeeper Yevhen Volynets of Kovalyovskiy 'Kolos' and defensive midfielder Oleksandr Pikhalyonok of Dnipro-1.

"It's very pleasant to train in such an atmosphere and work with such masters. So everything suits me, and I feel great in the camp. Today I had to parry shots from such class players as Andriy Yarmolenko and Artem Dovbyk. It was not easy since these are top-class footballers, and it's no coincidence that Andriy played in England's Premier League. At the same time, although it is difficult for me, I find it interesting."

Photo by the press service of the UAF

As for the atmosphere in the team, it's simply super! Everyone is positive and supports each other. Oleksandr Vasylyovych Petраков is a very demanding coach. We spoke with him, and he brought me up to speed on everything. So all is well. The pitches and conditions in Warsaw are perfect, so there's no reason to complain. I'm already starting to feel like part of the national team," — said Yevhen Volynets.

"Yesterday our flight was delayed, and we couldn't make it to the first training session with the squad on Friday. Of course, we were disappointed, but that's how things went. However, we have now fully recovered and are back at work. We arrived at the national team camp after a successful match for 'Dnipro-1' in the League Conference, and club victories always lift morale. After all, before this win, we only had losses in European competitions, so finally, we won. The main factors were the attitude to the game and teamwork. Everyone worked 100%, and victory came.

Now we have switched our focus to the national team, preparing for the match against Scotland, where we need only a win. Despite having limited time for preparation, this is our job. I believe it won't be an obstacle since matches continue in clubs as well. We play every three days, so we are in shape. As for the Nations League itself, participating in such tournaments gives me many positive emotions. Some say it's not a prestigious competition, but I don't share that view. Participating in any tournament under UEFA or FIFA is a great honor. Moreover, playing for the national team is always pleasant, so I will prepare to my fullest.

I would like to note that Scotland and Armenia will come out against us with a special attitude as they face group leaders. We also need to get ready in full force, and we'll see the result. We will fight for our country and people. A big thank you to the Armed Forces of Ukraine for liberating occupied territories. This adds motivation not only to them but also to us, footballers. We will try to improve the morale of our soldiers as well, which is very important," — noted Oleksandr Pikhalyonok.

As a reminder, the Nations League match between Scotland and Ukraine will take place on September 21 in Glasgow at Hampden Park (kickoff - 9:45 PM).