Zinchenko: I was in the mood to score when I found out that I was in the starting lineup

National team defender Ukraine Alexander Zinchenko commented on the victory over Albania (2:1) in the final round of the group stage of Division B1 Nations League 2024/25.

“Against Albania, first of all, there was pressure because of the result, especially after the first game with Georgia, because the result was not what we wanted. [Против Албании] We got what we planned, so we have a chance to fight for promotion to League A. We will prepare and give our all for this.”

“It’s very obvious that it was very difficult for the team, the guys were tired because they gave a lot of effort. With the support of the stands, the Albanians tried to move forward.”

“The most important thing was victory. Of course, I’m trying to get into my optimal condition, because I missed a lot, I understand all of this. But it was also nice to score, because I was looking forward to it when I found out that I was in the starting lineup. Said [Довбику и Сычу, когда уходил на замену]to encourage others and provide motivation and energy.”

The Ukrainian national team defeated the Albanians thanks to goals from Alexander Zinchenko and Roman Yaremchuk in the opening of the match. In the second half, the Albanians managed to pull one goal back, but Sergei Rebrov’s team held on to the winning score.

The blue-and-yellows took second place in Group B1 of the Nations League and will play in the playoffs for the right to promotion to Division A. The Ukrainians’ opponents could be the national teams of Scotland, Hungary, Serbia or Belgium. The draw will take place on Friday, November 22. The playoff matches themselves will take place next year – on March 20 and 23.