Oleksandr Shovkovskyi faces a must-win situation with "Dynamo" in Tuesday's Champions League qualification match against "Pafos" in Limassol. After losing the first leg 1-0 in Lublin, the Ukrainian side needs a victory to keep their group stage hopes alive.
"We have 27 players in our squad, each ready to enter the game at any moment," Shovkovskyi explained ahead of the decisive match. "This gives us the opportunity to make substitutions and rotate to utilize everyone while preparing for matches in such a busy schedule."
The "Dynamo" head coach addressed questions about whether "Pafos" might have an advantage from not playing on the weekend. He responded pragmatically to this concern.
"I cannot answer whether this gives them an advantage or not. When you're in a match rhythm, that's one thing, but on the other hand, they can calmly prepare for the match by analyzing actions. I'm confident tomorrow's game will be interesting and provide the answer," Shovkovskyi stated.
Despite the challenging travel conditions, the coach emphasized that some factors remain beyond their control. The team must adapt accordingly.
Interestingly, "Dynamo" must overcome the one-goal deficit from the first leg if they hope to advance to the Champions League playoff round. Shovkovskyi insists his squad needs to be ready for any tactical approach from their Cypriot opponents.
"We must be prepared for any tactics and solve the task before us. Regardless of the opponent's tactics, 11 players take the field who must be ready to play one of their best matches," he added.
Can the Ukrainian club overcome the deficit in Cyprus? Tuesday's clash will determine which side continues their Champions League journey.
