Arsenal defender Alexander Zinchenko clashed with his national teammate Mikhail Mudryk ahead of a league clash, quoting remarks shared with Tribune
During a tense moment, Zinchenko spoke with Mudryk after Mudryk scored a goal. He reminded him of their on-field rivalry between their clubs and warned that similar attempts in the upcoming Saturday match could lead to a confrontation. The defender candidly noted that he would respond forcefully if Mudryk repeated the move, adding a lighthearted apology for the language used. The key message from Zinchenko focused on the immediate aim of securing three points as their teams prepare to face off in London on Saturday. He stressed that both players should focus on their clubs and the important upcoming fixture, addressing Mudryk directly with another reminder of the stakes for the weekend, according to Tribune’s coverage.
In a separate European Championship qualifying match held on October 17, the Ukrainian national team defeated Malta with a 3-1 scoreline. Artem Dovbik and Mikhail Mudryk contributed goals, while Malta also managed a late strike. The result helped Ukraine’s campaign as they pushed toward qualification.
Ukraine, now with thirteen points from seven matches, sits in second place in the group. Sergei Rebrov’s side hold a three-point lead over the Italian squad, which has a game in hand. The two teams are scheduled to meet in the final qualifying fixture in November, a match that could decide the top position in the group.
Earlier coverage also highlighted Neymar’s dramatic departure on a stretcher after a different international fixture, underscoring the intense drama surrounding top players in international competition.