Andrei Skorobogatko: «I want to see spectacular football of good quality»

Ahead of the «Development Cup», which starts next weekend in the capital's football covered hall, the ABFF press office spoke with the head coach of the Belarusian team. The manager of Belarus youth team, which is to defend the title, spoke about preparations for the competition, tasks for the gaming week and assessed the level of the rivals in the group.

- Preparations for the competition started on January 12th: we trained in Minsk for a week with twenty field players and three goalkeepers. To be honest, the physical form of the guys caused concern. The players were let go by the clubs before the New Year - they were given two weeks of vacation. Therefore, the coaching staff of the team had to consider this fact  in the preparatory work. As a result, each player received an individual training program. And in order not to sit at the table on vacation, the guys had to perform a certain training volume. Efficiency was controlled using special gadgets. All information came to me and was constantly analyzed. It must be said that all football players carried out the programs prescribed by us in good faith.

- What are the tasks for the team at the Development cup?

- Of course, in every game we will strive for victory. The tournament is held in Minsk, and I want to show good interesting football at home. But our main task is to nevertheless prepare for the elite round of the European Championship 2020. We can say that the Development Cup is a dress rehearsal.

- The fact that we play at home and are the reigning champions of the competition additionally motivates or, conversely, puts pressure on guys?

- The guys in each match have the task of winning. From this we will build on.

- Let's talk about the rivals. It is worth saying that two opponents in the group - Finland and Belgium - are also participants of the elite round of the UEFA U17 European championship.

- Yes, that’s why we wanted them to be in the group. However, I will say that the representative of Asia - Uzbekistan - is a solid team in their region.

- What do you think of team Finland?

- Naturally, we studied this team before the training camp. But even the fact that the northerners confidently won a ticket to the elite round (first place in group 11) says a lot.

- Are they the favorites of our group?

- I do not know what team Belgium will bring. In this country, each age category is split into two teams - a little late development and a little early. Belgians can afford it. I don’t know what the opponents’ plans are regarding the «Development cup» and preparations for the elite round. But still, no matter what the team is, the opponent remains Belgium. There football is on the rise.

- Is Uzbekistan a «dark horse» in the group?

- This is a rather interesting team. In Asia, they are one of the most solid opponents. Real technical guys are gathered there. So it will be interesting to play with them too.

- You said that in every match the task is to win. Nevertheless, what is more important - voctory or a beautiful game?

- Personally, I want to see spectacular football of good quality. Even if you do not succeed in taking points.