Vasyl KOBIN: “Shakhtar had already jumped over the head in the Champions League”

Shakhtar players, who lost to Porto (3:5) in the final match of the Champions League group stage, will continue to play in the less prestigious Europa League next spring.

Former player of the Ukrainian national team and Shakhtar in a conversation with Sport.ua correspondent Vasily Kobin He explained why Pitmen could not get a positive result in the match in Portugal:

– Everything was ruined by the home team’s quick goal. Needing a win to reach the play-offs, the Donetsk team had no choice but to open up and, unlike Porto, playing with an open visor is not their strong point.

– Do you think Pitmen should have acted defensively, relying on counter-attacks and home field preparations, despite the goal they conceded in the opening game?

– I’m leaning towards this option, but I don’t know what the Pitmen’s plan is for the game. Considering that Rakitsky started in the middle of the defense and Matvienko returned to the left flank of the defense, the guests attached great importance to the reliability of the back.

“Unfortunately, the Donetsk team again did not look convincing in the exchange of blows, as in the last European Cup matches with Eintracht Frankfurt, Borussia and Feyenoord.

– Apparently the Pitmen were not ready for Porto to act so aggressively. The home team impressed with their focus on attack, their ability to put pressure and their high speed. The support of the fans also carried the team forward. It was very difficult to cope with so much pressure.

Porto’s advantage was undoubted. I believe this match will be a good lesson for young Pitmen. By the way, as for me, Shakhtar’s players jumped over their heads, scoring nine points in such a strong group. As for the lost ticket to the play-offs, the Pitmen were not supposed to lose to Porto in the first round.

– Shakhtar have a performance ahead of them in the Europa League next spring. How long do you think the Pitmen will last in this tournament?

– A lot will depend on the draw results and whether the Pitmen can retain their leader.