Yakson Rivas: Mom has always been my main source of support throughout my football journey

Here is an excerpt from the exclusive interview featured in the official match program for the 2025/2026 UPL Matchday 5 game between Kryvbas and Kolos, in which the team's Venezuelan newcomer, midfielder Yakson Rivas, answered our questions.

- Yakson, what were your first impressions of Ukrainian football?

- It is a very competitive league featuring many high-quality players. The standard came as a pleasant surprise. However, I managed to adapt quickly and start showing my best on the pitch.

- You were born in Venezuela and spent practically your entire career playing there. What was the main reason behind your decision to try your hand in Ukraine?

- It’s an important step in my career. I hadn't had the chance to play outside Venezuela before. When the opportunity arose, I didn't hesitate - I agreed immediately. It’s a great challenge for me, and I hope to achieve significant success here.

- What differences have you noticed between Venezuelan and Ukrainian football so far?

- The football here is completely different - it’s a European level. There is a lot of physical battling and a need for stamina; you have to run and give your all for the full 90 minutes. They don't play that way in my country; there, you get more space and freedom on the pitch. Here, you face constant pressure and pressing from the first minute to the last. It takes some getting used to, but it’s something you can certainly handle and move forward with.

- How is your adaptation to life in Kryvyi Rih going? What was the hardest part after the move?

- I think I adapted very quickly. That’s usually how it goes: the first week in a new place is a bit tough, but then I quickly get into the rhythm. Despite the current circumstances, the city is quite calm and comfortable to live in.

- Do you have a favorite spot in Kryvyi Rih yet, or a Ukrainian dish you’ve enjoyed?

- I haven't found a favorite spot yet; not enough time has passed. I visited one restaurant, but I can't even recall the name (smiles). As for the food - I haven't had a chance to try anything distinctly Ukrainian yet; I usually stick to dishes I'm used to, like chicken. So, getting to know the local cuisine is still ahead of me.

- You play as a right winger. What do you consider your strongest qualities?

- First and foremost, my speed, my shooting technique, and my ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations.

- You have over 100 professional matches under your belt in Venezuelan football. Which stage of your career do you look back on most fondly?

- Undoubtedly, the day of my professional debut. I was still very young when I first took the field for Mineros de Guayana. You never forget something like that—your first match in senior football; the emotions were incredible. Plus, we won that game, so it’s a memory that will last a lifetime.

- You won the Venezuelan Super Cup in 2025. What did that victory give you in terms of experience?

- It was a landmark match and an incredible victory, especially since we were playing against our biggest rival in Venezuela - Deportivo Táchira. It’s a city with an incredible football culture. Winning a trophy on their home turf was a special thrill. We celebrated with genuine emotion. It was a massive occasion for the club, and I gained invaluable experience.

- Who supported you the most when you were just starting out in football?

- My mother. She has always been my rock throughout my football journey - through both the joyful moments and the toughest times. I’m also deeply grateful to my agent, who provides so much support, and to my first coach, Liborio Padrino, who introduced me to the sport. Thanks to these people, I am where I am today and able to keep growing.

- You had a brief stint with the Venezuela U-17 team. Do you dream of getting a call-up to the senior national team now?

- I don’t have the fondest memories of the youth team, as I never actually played a single minute during the South American Championship. Still, it was a great experience in terms of the team atmosphere. But a call-up to the senior national team is the dream of every young boy and professional footballer. We work hard every day for the very purpose of representing our country with pride on the international stage. I will do everything in my power to earn that call-up.

Read the full version of the interview in the official match program for the game "Kryvbas" - "Colossus". You can order this and other programs atthe official website of the Fan-shop, or by writing inDirect link to the official page of the Kryvbas FC Fan Shop on Instagram.

Media of FC "Kryvbas" Kryvyi Rih