Ukraine national team defender Vitaliy Mykolenko, along with the head coach of the national team Serhiy Rebrov, participated in a press conference ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifier match against France in Paris.

— Ahead are two important matches. What is felt more in the team – tension or maximum concentration?

— We gathered yesterday, with a very short period of time before the game. I wouldn't say there's tension, but everyone understands the responsibility of the matches we always play for our country. Everyone is positive, yet they are aware of how important these upcoming games are. We approach them with full concentration.

— Before the match against Azerbaijan, there was a question about avoiding underestimating the opponent. Now the opposite question arises – how to avoid overestimating France and stepping onto the field without fear in such a decisive moment?

— I wouldn't say there's any fear. There is respect for the opponent. It's an excellent team with top players at the world level. But they are just as footballers as we are. I don't think overestimation will happen. We'll play on our strengths.

— France is the favorite, and no one expects a miracle from you, so there won't be any psychological pressure...

— Pressure in the national team always exists, and I don't think that if we play against such a powerhouse as France, there will be no pressure regarding the result. We have two matches left to solve the task of qualifying for the World Cup. And when you face such a difficult task, pressure is always present.

— In recent matches for Everton, we noticed that you've worked on your throw-ins. Is this an initiative from the club's coach? And do you plan to transfer this to national team play?

— We haven't discussed this in the national team yet. But there is a trend in modern football where we have to throw the ball frequently from the sideline. At my club, I have that option, I can throw into the penalty area. So far without any goal-scoring actions, but I'm trying to throw as far as possible.

— Taras Stepanenko mentioned that when preparing for matches of this level, he focused on maintaining concentration throughout all 90 minutes. To what extent do you and your teammates understand that tomorrow, considering the class of the opponent, there will be no room for mistakes?

— Taras is right, we need to maintain concentration for all 90 plus minutes. Because any mistake can cost us a match. So we prepare with full responsibility.

As a reminder, the 2026 World Cup qualifier match between France and Ukraine will take place in Paris on November 13 (kickoff at 8:45 PM Kyiv time).