The left-wing defender of the national team of Ukraine, Vitaly Mykolenko, shared his emotions after the defeat of Sweden (1:3) in the playoffs for the 2026 World Cup, as well as thoughts about the team’s mood before.

" And then we got together with the team, with the boys, and talked about how we still have one more match and we can go out and fight for this country and lose this friendly match.

“We can go out and show that we have the right to play for this country,” Mykolenko said at a press conference before the match against Albania.

Also, the defencist became a leader in the national team, reinforcing the importance of evidence and commitment on the field.

“Well, perhaps, you need to go through such matches, to reject such an accusation. First of all, be very clear and a good citizen, who has always given for the team and for your club. If your teammates work, they will work hard and try to be as clear as possible and give 100% on the field..

From, perhaps, as soon as you give all your evidence, as little guys as before, then you become a leader and you lead the team behind you.

By virtue of my life, as I said, it’s important to highlight this moment, if you can say something in the breakup room, and so that it looks organic, so be moving,” adding the fullback.

We would like to remind you that after the failure of the match against Sweden, the Ukrainian national team lost the chance to make it to the World Cup against Eastern America. Today, for the 31st year already, the team will play a friendly match against Albania, which is not expected.