Mladen Bartulovich has decided on his starting lineup for the Ukrainian Premier League opener as "Metalist 1925" prepares to face "Obolon" Kyiv at Zhytomyr's Central Stadium.
"We've selected players who are in optimal condition for this first match," the Kharkiv side's manager might explain about his tactical choices.
Bartulovich opted to start with Krupskyi, Pavliuk, Shabanov, and Martyniuk in defense, while Kaliuzhnyi will operate in midfield, and Antiukh positions himself on the left side of the attack.
Meanwhile, Oleksandr Antonenko, the manager of the Kyiv-based club, has included Sukhanov and Shevchenko on the flanks in his starting formation. Kulakovskyi and Chekh will control the middle of the park, while Ustymenko takes his place in the forward line.
The full "Metalist 1925" lineup features Varakuta in goal behind the defensive four, with Kalitvintsev, Kaliuzhnyi, and Panchenko forming the midfield. Hadzhyiev and Rashytsia join Antiukh in attack.
Interestingly, Antonenko's "Obolon" will counter with Marchenko between the posts, protected by a defensive unit of Sukhanov, Pryimak, Kurko, Dubko, and Shevchenko. The midfield trio of Kulakovskyi, Chekh, and Slobodian will support the forward pair of Bychek and Ustymenko.
By the way, both teams have prepared strong benches for this fixture. Metalist's substitutes include Mozil, Protsenko, Kapinus, and several other options should the manager need to adjust his tactics during the match.
Will this season opener provide fans with an exciting glimpse of what's to come in the Ukrainian Premier League? The stage is set in Zhytomyr.
