Andriy Shevchenko: "The Ukraine U-19 team achieved all their goals at EURO 2024"

26.07.2024 09:39

Andriy Shevchenko, President of the Ukrainian Association of Football (UAF), commented on the performance of the Ukraine U-19 team at EURO 2024, where Dmytro Mykhailenko's team reached the semi-finals and secured a spot in the 2025 U-20 World Cup in Chile.

"The boys had a very good tournament. They achieved all the goals set before them, advanced from the group stage, and qualified for the World Cup. They played a very good match and achieved an important victory over Italy.

Against France, the boys played on equal terms. It was a very tough match. The French are a strong team, but we had chances and lost narrowly.

If I evaluate the entire tournament, my assessment is positive, regarding both the coach and the team. They will prepare for the World Cup. They have strong motivation and great team spirit. They represent Ukraine with dignity.

We saw how emotionally the boys took the semi-final defeat. But this is normal for the start of their careers. They need to get through this. I like that they have team spirit. Even in the game against France, I saw that they support each other. Even when it was tough and the opponents controlled the game, they were united and supported each other.

I congratulated the team and wished them to regroup in a year, prepare well, and perform at the World Cup. They should continue to pursue their goals.

I believe that each of these players has a chance to make a mark in adult football. Clubs should take notice of them. We must support our youth. They have great potential," noted Andriy Shevchenko.