Daler Kuzyaev, the footballer who represents Le Havre and the Russian national team, spoke candidly in an interview with Championship about why he did not celebrate his opening goal against Brest in the French Ligue 1. The denying flair of celebration, he explained, does not always accompany scoring for him, and this particular moment was influenced by a mix of team performance and personal mood.
Reflecting on the match, Kuzyaev described it as a difficult evening. Le Havre conceded early and struggled to find their rhythm, with the humid, stifling air adding to the fatigue that weighed on the players. In his own words, the combination of a hot environment and a draining tempo left him feeling exhausted enough to forego the typical exuberant celebration. He wanted to move on with composure rather than launch into a display that could be misinterpreted by teammates or supporters. This tempered reaction underscored a broader personal approach to scoring in which he often prioritizes balance and control over theatrical gestures.
When younger fans asked why the goal did not spark a wild celebration, the midfielder opened up about a recurring pattern in his career. He revealed that in Russia he seldom felt compelled to sprint, raise his arms, or perform celebratory gestures after finding the net. The reason, he said, remains unclear to him. Regardless of the goal-scorer’s ego or the stakes, Kuzyaev emphasized a preference for staying calm and focused in the moment, a mindset that has become a hallmark of his on-field demeanor.
In a broader frame, the 30-year-old Russian international had just signed a contract with Le Havre on July 12, tying him to the French club through the summer of 2025. The move followed six years with Zenit St. Petersburg, where he developed as a central figure in the team’s midfield. At Le Havre, he has already logged eight league appearances, contributing two goals as he acclimates to a different tactical setup and league tempo. His experience in Russian football, combined with the challenges of adapting to French football, reflects a player who values consistency and a steady, methodical approach to his role on the pitch.
Looking ahead, Kuzyaev is scheduled to represent Russia in a friendly match against Cameroon. The fixture is slated to take place in Moscow at the Lev Yashin Dynamo Stadium, with kickoff at 19:00 Moscow time. The clash presents an opportunity for the squad to test new combinations and build cohesion under international pressure, while fans across Russia and in diaspora communities watch with anticipation. This upcoming international window serves as a reminder of Kuzyaev’s ongoing commitment to national duty even as he continues to adapt to life and competition in France.
Earlier remarks from Kuzyaev touched on financial considerations related to his transfer to Le Havre. He acknowledged that salary discussions were part of the decision-making process, a practical aspect of moving to a new league and a new club. His comments offered a candid glimpse into the real-world dynamics that players navigate when pursuing opportunities abroad, balancing professional ambition with economic realities. The overall narrative around Kuzyaev highlights not only his technical abilities and work rate but also his thoughtful, measured approach to career choices and on-field expression.