Semi-defender of the Ukraine national team Oleksandr Pikhalyonok spoke about continuing the preparation of the team for qualification matches against North Macedonia and Malta for Euro-2024.

Yesterday, 26 players from the Ukraine national team conducted another evening training session on the field at the Strahov stadium in Prague. The coaching staff focused primarily on structuring the game, tactical exercises, and work on passing.

The process of preparation was commented on by semi-defender Oleksandr Pikhalyonok.

"We have had very intensive training sessions for three days with many tactical exercises. Tomorrow the intensity will decrease, then it will increase again. This is a weekly cycle that has been planned this way. I think the team is fully prepared for the match against North Macedonia. In other words, everyone is in battle readiness."

There is always high competition in the national squad. Almost everyone is ready to play except maybe Denis Popov, who is currently working on an individual program.

North Macedonia is the same team with the same tactics as in the previous match. We analyze their games against us and Italy, look at the specifics, and prepare accordingly. This is a Euro Championship qualifier, so every game is very important. We need to give our all one hundred percent. We have tournament necessity to take six points from two matches, but this doesn't pressure us; rather, it adds strength and motivation. We cannot afford any mistakes.

I also have my own motivation. I've been called up for several training sessions now, but haven't managed to play yet. I'm waiting for my chance and want to make the most of it if given the opportunity. I believe I am ready to surprise everyone in a good way," — said Oleksandr Pikhalyonok.

As a reminder, the Euro-2024 qualifier match between the national teams of Ukraine and North Macedonia will take place on October 14th in Prague (kick-off at 16.00 Kyiv time).