“I bring this game to the list of good ones”: what did Goncharenko and Semak say after the match CSKA - Zenit

"The defeat of CSKA became a point in a very difficult period for the team"

The first result of the match was summed up by guest mentor Sergei Semak. A specialist from the banks of the Neva criticized the actions of his team in the attack, spoke about the reasons for replacing Artem Dziuba and admitted that the coming break in the championship of Russia would benefit his wards.

- The first goal conceded and our mistakes that accompanied this assault attack by CSKA influenced the entire course of the game. CSKA felt confident in their abilities. We, on the contrary, collapsed the initial tactical preparation. I repeat, made a lot of mistakes. And after the second goal they put themselves in a very difficult position.

- How to evaluate the transition of “Zenith” to the new tactical disposition with three attackers during the break?

- Yes, in the second half we rearranged. They tried to change the course of the meeting, but for this it was necessary to score at least one ball. Now you need to relax and analyze what happened. Anyway, we went through a complex, saturated cycle - the guys are emotionally and physically exhausted. The upcoming break should benefit the team.

- What happened to Artem Dzuba? Can the forward help the Russian team?

- Artem experienced problems before entering the field. It is no secret that his participation in this game was in question. He asked for a replacement, felt discomfort. Now the medical headquarters of Zenit and the national team will decide how to proceed.

- Were you satisfied with how the team acted before the conceded goal?

- Not everyone. We lacked sharpness in the attack. But with the control of the ball there were no problems. As I said, CSKA played better and put us at a disadvantage. CSKA love to act on fast counterattacks and well know how to do it.

- Do not you think that the transfer of Alexander Erokhin to the center of the field weakened the team in terms of riding skills and attacks at the first rate?

- We proceed from the current situation in the team. If Leandro Paredes played, Sasha would have acted higher, but the Argentinian missed this match, and I was forced to shift Erokhin to the support zone. In addition, he missed a lot of games, and unfortunately for us, while he is far from being in the best shape. But Alexander is a qualified footballer and will play where they say.

- Why didn't you say that you had less time to prepare for the match?

- We do not choose a calendar. Neither we nor rivals. The same situation occurred before the matches with Lokomotiv and Spartak. I had to play after a two-day break and away meetings of the Europa League. Of course, it is not easy. But this is part of the profession, and we must find the optimal solution.

- Did you expect that even in the absence of leaders, the army team would play so confidently and boldly?

- They always try to play aggressively and actively. Even with the loss of CSKA remains a strong contender. In addition, we all know for a long time and know very well the strong and weak qualities of each other. Surprise here is difficult.

- How to evaluate the game of Ilzat Akhmetov, who in the summer could become a Zenit player? Could a young midfielder also actively progress under your leadership?

- It is hard to say. I reported my position on Akhmetov to the leadership, but I didn’t like the player. It now remains only to rejoice that Ilzat is showing himself and deservedly is the leader of CSKA. I sincerely wish him to continue on this path.

“Akhmetov's shoulder flew out”

Unlike his counterpart from St. Petersburg, CSKA head coach Viktor Goncharenko praised his team for an active match, and also spoke about the nature of the damage to Ilzat Akhmetov.

- We quickly scored two goals, did not allow Zenit to pass into our zone. In general, we had a very good first half. As for the second game piece, they kept in the head Dziuba and Zabolotny, and a very serious pressure that they can put on our defense. I am glad that in many episodes they could cope with this pressure. I add this match to the list of good games of my team.

- In the second half, you talked a lot on the brow with Dmitry Efremov. Something did not suit you in his actions?

- I think he is just comfortable when he gets hints during the match.

- You often interacted with George Schennikov. What did they say to him?

- What you need to act according to the plan. And also that the defense works, because during the first half we did not miss a single ball.

- Are the nature and extent of damage of Ilzat Akhmetov known?

- While there is no specifics. His shoulder flew out. Any conclusions can be made only after the examination.

- Was the injured Ivan Oblyakov in the reserve formally or ready to enter the field?

- We until the last moment conducted negotiations with judges. They tried to figure out whether he would be allowed to play with plaster on his arm. As a result of the meetings, it was decided to leave Ivan on the bench.

- In preparing for the match, took into account the fact that Zenit had less time to recover after playing in the Europa League?

- We are always trying to play initiative. Push off from ourselves, not from the opponent. Somewhere we ourselves do not have enough strength. Yes, maybe Zenit was a little tired, but I think the main secret of success was not their weakness, but our strength and activity.