Shakhtar vs Dinamo Minsk: players’ reaction

22-02-15 21:44:57

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The Donetsk team footballers reflect on defeating Dinamo Minsk.

Fernando, Shakhtar midfielder:

- We had the same tasks for both halves, though we got two different halves in actual fact. Primarily because our team squad was almost completely changed after the break. Mister gives everyone an opportunity to play, watching them and making conclusions. As for the opponents, they proved themselves very well, attacking a lot. Style wise, Dinamo Minsk are similar to BATE in many ways. The Belarusian title holders just have more experienced players. Plus we should take into account the fact that we had met with the team from Borisov in the Champions League, while today we had just a friendly game. Of course, motivation in the European club competition is stronger. But we are happy anyway, as we’ve achieved a good result.

Vyacheslav Shevchuk, Shakhtar defender:

- The opponents were well prepared physically. Perhaps, in the dying stages, at 2-0, we got somewhat complacent, thus allowing the Belarusians to create a couple of scoring chances. But it's a friendly game, a training camp. The result is not crucial here. The opponents challenging us are not quite top-level. Plus we have morning training sessions on match days. Mister puts us on a high workload schedule to keep us in shape. We’ve been improving our form through matches and good training.

Dmytro Ivanysenya, Shakhtar midfielder:

- The reserve team already flew to Kyiv, while I’ve been staying with the first team, and I will get back with them either. I am very happy that they called me up to join the first team. The opportunity to play here, to spend at least a few minutes with such experienced players is well worth it. Before the match, Mircea Lucescu asked us not to worry and operate well defensively. Especially as Dinamo are a strong team who can force midfield challenges and easily retain possession at the same time.

FC Shakhtar
Press Office