Alexander ZUBKOV: “We continue to fight to qualify for the play-offs in the Champions League”

Striker of Shakhtar Donetsk Alexander Zubkov He shared his impressions after the victory against Antwerp (1:0) in the 5th round match of the Champions League group stage.

– Alexander in victory! Shakhtar have secured the European spring. What are the main positive aspects of the Antwerp match?

– What matters is the result. Considering the result, we continue to fight to qualify for the Champions League play-offs and therefore continue our preparations with good feelings.

– Did you expect Nikolai Matvienko to score after your cross from the free kick?

– We prepared for this carefully in training, so we understand each other. It’s great that he scored. Congratulations to him!

– You were chosen as the best player of the match. How does it feel to receive this award?

– To be honest, it’s very nice, but I wouldn’t single out one person because the whole team did a good job. We fought for each other, that’s why we got results.

– We all remember the stunning victory in the first leg against Antwerp. What was the difference between this match and the Belgium match?

– Probably because we played better in the first half after the break, but now maybe we played stronger in the first half and in the second half we played according to the result. But there were good counter attacks in the second half, we could have scored the second and third goals but there was a bit of a lack of luck and skill. But the important thing is that we win and move on.

– There were many local and Ukrainian fans in the stands. How strongly did you feel their support?

– A very good atmosphere where both teams enjoy playing. A big thank you to the people who came and cheered even though it was pretty cold outside. Thank you all very much!

– We have a match against Porto ahead of us. What will be the most important thing about this?

– I don’t know yet, we will prepare carefully as we get closer to the match. There will probably be a lot of emotions because this is a decisive match for both teams. See.

– Europa League or Champions League?

– Champions League.

The decisive match against Porto for the right to qualify for the Champions League play-offs will be played on December 13 at 22:00 Kiev time.