Ukraine head coach Serhiy Rebrov has spoken candidly ahead of his side’s high-profile 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against France, expressing confidence in his squad despite injury setbacks and psychological pressure amid the ongoing war back home.

“Unfortunately, not everyone is fully fit,” Rebrov admitted during the pre-match press conference. “But this isn’t the first time we’ve had several injuries in camp. These things happen. The important thing is that every player here is focused and committed. I’m confident we’ll put up a real fight tomorrow.”

When asked about the balance between players competing in Europe versus those in the domestic Ukrainian Premier League, Rebrov dismissed the distinction: “I don’t separate them. Match fitness is crucial, of course, but Ukrainian clubs have had a heavy schedule lately—perhaps too heavy. The players arrived exhausted, and we didn’t even have time for two full training sessions. It was mostly recovery work.”

He also touched on the psychological toll of representing Ukraine during wartime: “It’s incredibly difficult. But I can also see how much it motivates them. When these players walk out onto the pitch wearing the Ukrainian flag, they know exactly who they’re playing for.”

“We’re facing France tomorrow. It’s a world-class team, so we have to be fully prepared. After that comes Azerbaijan. We need to take it one step at a time and give our all in every match. We’re up against some of the strongest teams and players in the world.”

“It won’t be easy. But I believe in my boys. I can feel their motivation, their hunger. I know we will give everything we have,” Rebrov concluded.

Ukraine vs France kicks off on Thursday, 5 September, at 20:45 CET at the Tarczyński Arena in Wrocław, Poland.