Serhiy Rebrov dedicated Ukraine’s thrilling Euro 2024 win over Slovakia to the people of the war-torn country.
After going in 1-0 down at half-time, the Blue and Yellow’s European Championship campaign came to life with two goal in the second half.
Mykola Shaparenko cancelled out Ivan Shranz’s opener before substitute Roman Yaremchuk’s late finish saw them bounce back from a disappointing opening-game defeat to Romania.
Off the pitch, Ukraine continue to defend their country following Russia’s invasion and Rebrov was delighted to provide a glimmer of positivity to people during these times of distress.
The 50-year-old said: “We did very badly against Romania but they showed a different spirit and deserved the win.
“I’m very glad for the players. We did well but with some mistakes. Today we conceded a goal and reacted very well.
“It’s very good for our people in Ukraine who are really missing these emotions.”
🥹#EURO2024 | #SVKUKR pic.twitter.com/3OW150rCZO
— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) June 21, 2024
Ukraine were poor in a dominant first half by Slovakia but were much improved after the break, with only one team looking likely to score the winner.
On what he tweaked tactically for the second half, Rebrov said: “Nothing changed, just some positions in our high pressing.
“The players who came off the bench improved us.
“Most important today we showed spirit. In tournament football you can win or lose but it’s very important how you do this.
“Today we tried to save the result, we deserved this win and we played with spirit.”
A key talking point before the game was Rebrov’s decision to change his goalkeeper, dropping Andriy Lunin for Anatoliy Trubin following a poor showing from the Real Madrid stopper against Romania.
It was a decision that was vindicated, with Benfica keeper Trubin making a string of brilliant saves – particularly in the first half.
Rebrov added: “I’m pleased we have good competition among the goalkeepers.
“I think Anatoliy deserved to play after his performance against Germany.
“He was very calm and he could have started before this game.”
