Yurii Vernydub: I liked the fact that my boys really played football

The head coach of Kryvyi Rih "Kryvbas" Yury Vernydub commented on the game at a press conference after the first match of the 2024\25 Conference League playoffs against Spanish "Betis" - 0:2.

- It is difficult to comment on something. Moreover, we lost 0:2. We faced a very good opponent. A strong rival from one of the top 5 European leagues - La Liga. The match was difficult for us. But I liked the fact that the boys played evenly. They did not sit in defense, but really played. The match turned out to be interesting: the opponent attacked, and so did we. The only difference is that "Betis" has more skill. That's why they scored two good goals and won.

We will prepare for the next matches. Now in two days we have a game with "Ingulets" in the UPL in Kryvyi Rih. It is necessary to calmly analyze everything. I told the guys that these matches should be fun. After all, matches with European teams teach us, me and the players, what to strive for in the future. If you work diligently and do everything the right way, you will definitely reach some heights. No other way.

- "Kryvbas" has already played two matches in Košice. How do you like the support of our fans?

- I really liked everything. I am grateful to everyone who supported and cheered us on. Their support is class. This is a great incentive for the team. The fact that we lost - we apologize. But, let's face it, the opponents we got were not very easy: either "Viktoria" or "Betis". We all equally did everything to achieve a positive result. But, it is worth admitting, today - we are somewhat weaker than these rivals.

We have something to strive for. There is no other way: only work and training. Then we will really achieve something. I thank my football players for these matches, I have nothing bad to say to them. I really hope that after these European Cup matches, we will become even better at playing in the UPL. After all, such matches should be an impetus for each of them, as well as for me as a coach.

Media of FC "Kryvbas" Kryvyi Rih