The Ukrainian national team continues a series of friendlies as part of their preparation for the 2022 World Cup playoffs and upcoming matches in the Nations League 2022/2023. This time, the blue-and-yellow defeated Italy's "Empoli" with a score of 3:1. After the match, head coach Oleksandr Petrakov evaluated his players' performance.

"Did you like the game? Why did you want to play against 'Empoli'?"

"‘Empoli’ helped us out, as we couldn't play against Udinese. I didn’t choose the opponent myself. I am very grateful to the Italian club, its president, head coach, and players for their hospitality."

"How do you prepare the team considering the current situation in Ukraine?"

"It was difficult when we first gathered. I thank the boys for listening to me and following my instructions. It's very tough on them. Today, practically playing alongside them at the sideline, I tried to get them physically ready. I pushed them forward; many could barely move their legs. But I am grateful that they managed to finish it, they are great. We need friendly matches. The problem is we haven't played any sparring games."

"Is there any specific information about Denys Popov's injury?"

"He has an Achilles tendon issue; we will see, probably in two days. The doctor said the tendon is intact but needs an MRI and some rest for a few days. I am letting him go home to his wife. After arriving back, Popov will have an MRI, then we'll decide."

"What squad will Ukraine field tomorrow in their match against 'Rijeka'?"

"No secrets here. We fly to Croatia early morning, arrive at the venue, have lunch. Tomorrow on the pitch there will be 11 new players."

"Oleksandr Pichalok scored in his second consecutive match and demonstrated a good level of play. Roman Yaremchuk recently joined the national team setup and also made an impression today. Comment on their performances."

"Yaremchuk played his last game on May 13, immediately flew to the national team without asking for a break. We work with Roman; he stays behind after training sessions by 15-20 minutes to work on finishing. He is doing well, had some moments today. God willing, in Glasgow he will score as many goals as needed. As for Pichalok, there's no need to overpraise him. It’s a friendly game. The boy is young; let him play, I am happy for him."

"Did you watch the Eurovision Song Contest?"

"I watched it; the whole team did. We are very happy about our victory."

"In June, Ukraine's national team has a large number of matches scheduled. Do you have an understanding of how many players are needed to maintain this hectic pace and rotate?"

"I've been thinking about it for some time now. You see the boys are under tremendous pressure. Popov, Bulhak, Hushylyak... got injured. I spoke with the UAF president, told him that I want to conduct five sparring games. Also asked to take 27 players to Glasgow and subsequent matches."