It’s Dynamo’s turn to represent Ukraine on the continental stage this evening as they take on Copenhagen in the Europa League!
It’s the second showdown between these two in as many weeks as they vie for the top spot in the group!
Dynamo go into this game a lot more confident than they had done just a fortnight ago after a recent run of impressive results and performances.
Since the 1-1 draw with Copenhagen, the performance of which epitomised the lethargic and aimless style that has plagued Dynamo from the departure of Rebrov, Kyiv have impressed. However it is still way too early to say that they have turned a new corner.
Dynamo’s performance against Shakhtar in the Cup raised eyebrows with how well Dynamo moved the ball forward but ultimately action in the box was sparing. The final third is where this side need to do the most work. The personnel at hand for that solo forward role may also be to blame.
Despite the many goals Besiedin scores in the UPL, this is never replicated in the big games. Likewise Tsyhankov has yet to find his feet this season and is struggling to reinvigorate the form of last season. Has his big club / big league move ship sailed already?
For all their problems up top, one area where Dynamo look seriously impressive is in defence.
Shabanov has enjoyed a stellar season so far, cementing himself as the first centre back on the team sheet. He’s improved ten fold on his recent seasons, looking composed on the ball and when going in for the tackle. With Popov alongside him, who also looks to have made an impression after commanding displays in recent weeks, conceding goals is now less of a problem.
Another plus side of this partnership is their contribution in the opposition box. With goals against top sides limited to set pieces, due to the lacking of an astute forward, both defenders have provided goals for the side as well.
U20 World Cup winner, Popov is already having comparisons to the legendary Sergio Ramos drawn since his breakthrough. May his development continue in such a positive path!
However, it really won’t be good enough for Dynamo to grind out yet another low scoring draw if they are truly serious about going far in this competition. They’ll need to win on the road tonight as the fixture list doesn’t get that much easier.
Lugano come to Kyiv next , who Dynamo failed to score against, before a trip back to the Øresund Strait to face a tricky Malmö! Hence a win in Denmark would at least ensure that Dynamo held top spot qualification entirely in their own hands!
Whether they take this opportunity, is as unpredictable as the weather!
ZORYA LONDONSK 