An Interview with Volodymyr Vilivald
In an interview, FC Kryvbas defender Volodymyr Vilivald discussed the team's performance in the Ukrainian Premier League (UPL), their preparations for an upcoming match against league leaders LNZ, and the introduction of mandatory English lessons for players. The UPL season resumes this week, with Kryvbas currently sitting in fifth place in the standings. The Ukrainian Premier League is the top tier of professional football in Ukraine, where competition for European qualification spots is intense.
In the 20th round, Kryvbas suffered a 0:2 defeat to Polissya. Vilivald noted that 'it was a crucial match for both sides. What did we lack for victory? In my opinion, it was finishing our chances. We had opportunities in the first half.' However, the team bounced back in their next match, securing a 2:1 victory over Epitsentr.
A New Team Initiative
Following their winter training camp, the team, under the guidance of the head coach, has implemented compulsory English language lessons for its players. Volodymyr Vilivald confirmed this:
'Yes, it's true. Starting from the winter training camp, we began studying English with our translator.'This initiative aims to improve communication within the squad and with the coaching staff.
During the recent international break, a record number of Kryvbas players received call-ups to their respective national teams. Volodymyr Vilivald, who earned his first call-up to the youth national team, remarked:
'If I'm not mistaken, this international window saw a record number of Kryvbas footballers invited to various national teams.'
Kryvbas's next match is in April, when they will host league leaders LNZ on their home ground. The team trails fourth-placed Dynamo Kyiv by seven points. Vilivald believes it is 'too early to write us off in this race. I think Kryvbas still has a chance to break into the top four. A seven-point gap is not an insurmountable chasm.'
Thus, Kryvbas continues to work on improving its UPL results, preparing for key fixtures while integrating new educational initiatives for the players. The record number of national team call-ups demonstrates growth both individually and collectively, which could positively impact their performance in future matches. The preparation for the LNZ encounter will serve as a significant test for Kryvbas and could define their chances of securing a top-four finish.