Semi-defender of the national team of Ukraine Oleksandr Zinchenko together with head coach Serhiy Rebrov took part in a press conference ahead of the Euro 2024 playoff semifinal match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

— A few years ago, you already played against the Bosnians. What are your expectations from this opponent now?

— Of course, we know it will be difficult because they have a great team with experienced players who can share their experience with others. Naturally, every national team plays better in front of their fans. I hope we will show our best game.

— Many people say that the current Ukrainian national team is the best for a long time. Do you feel pressure because the team reached the quarter-finals of Euro 2020 under Andriy Shevchenko? Do you feel like you have to go further?

— I don't know who can judge which team is better. We will leave that up to other people. The Ukrainian national team is changing generations, there are many young and experienced players. I think it's a great mix at the moment. I really hope our team will achieve heights. This is what we believe in. You can talk a lot, but another thing is showing it on the field. We have chosen the second option and will try to show ourselves from the best side.

— How did the last week in Spain go? What's the atmosphere in the team after a long break? How are you doing, since you missed a lot?

— The atmosphere is great, we all understand why we're here and realize our responsibility. Training is going properly. I hope we will be able to show this on the field. As for my condition, I feel good physically and mentally, ready at 100 percent.

— The Ukrainian national team practiced penalty kicks. How do you view the possibility of a post-match shootout?

— This is part of the game rules. If we play extra time, then there will be additional periods and penalties afterward. Of course, it would be nice to achieve a positive result in 90 minutes, but in football you have to be prepared for everything. That's why we practiced this during training.

Reminder: The Euro 2024 playoff semifinal match Bosnia and Herzegovina — Ukraine will take place on March 21 in Zenica and start at 8:45 PM local time (9:45 PM Kyiv time).