– The expectations are simple: Zenit must win and advance. There shouldn’t be any questions here. Yes, our team played in Iran without success, but at the same time I want to note that in all control matches they played with a mixed team. I am sure that the mood in Ulyanovsk will be optimal. We have to go out and fight for the Cup. The rival team, although not skilled, is at the bottom of the FNL, but at the same time it is stubborn and can present certain surprises, which happen in cup matches. Last year, we somehow already fell under the FNL team when we missed Alania in the semifinals; this is also worth remembering. At the same time, I am sure that the team will play as the main team, there will be no underestimation of the opponent. Well, everything will be decided on the field. In addition to fighting and movement, the Volga is unlikely to be able to offer anything. As for the football field, for a team that is one level below, it is a great advantage. If the pitch is heavy, Zenit need to play faster. Maybe a little easier. Because if there is a lot of joint and martial arts, this does not suit us. You must outplay the opponent due to your skill level, you must prepare for this.
– There were a lot of questions about where the match will finally take place…– I think that Zenit rightly expressed their concerns about the game in Ulyanovsk. It is difficult to play there in February. And we had similar cases where people were injured. Naturally, losing serious and expensive players due to the quality of the course and bad weather. But the situation is not in Zenit, but in the regulations adopted by the Russian Football Federation. In the February weather it is impossible to play in such conditions. Of course, it is necessary to calculate the options. Ulyanovsk is doing everything possible to prepare the field. On the other hand, the rich in our country are not especially loved. Also, Zenit will win all the time, but this does not add love to the team.But here we have to think about something else. “Zenith” could not get to the “Volga” if it were not for the new Cup regulations. Of course, the defeat of Krylya Sovetov in the group stage was very untimely. We were not supposed to lose there and thus go into this round for the teams that took third place in the group. I think our place is among those where eight Premier League teams play. But what is, is. You have to come, play and win.
