Are all the players fit to play in this match?
Serhiy Rebrov: Yes, we checked in with the players this morning. We spoke with the medical staff and no one reported any issues. We're continuing our preparations and have until tomorrow to finalise our squad. As you know, two players will miss this match due to suspension, but they'll be ready for the next game.
In the last World Cup playoffs in 2022, Ukraine lost 1-0 to Wales in the final. What memories do you have of that match and what did you take away from it?
Ilya Zabarnyi: We remember that match well, we had our chances but unfortunately we lost. We gained valuable experience at that time. The war in Ukraine is still ongoing, and we want to remind everyone of that - it's important. We need to be strong and resilient to qualify for the World Cup.
Is it difficult to play against Viktor Gyokeres, whom you've never faced before?
Zabarnyi: He's a top player, but for me as a defender, it doesn't matter who I'm up against. My job is to do my best and give everything I have.
Do the attacks that happened yesterday in Ukraine, in Lviv, add extra pressure?
Rebrov: The situation has been going on for four years, so it's nothing new. We know why we're playing - our players play for the country, for those defending our nation, for our soldiers. These recent attacks are an extra source of motivation for us.
Zinchenko, the captain, is absent. Who will replace him?
Rebrov: We have other players who can be leaders in the squad, not necessarily just those wearing the armband. The most important thing is to show character. You'll see tomorrow if Ilya Zabarnyi will be captain.
In the qualifiers, Sweden had a lot of problems with their attack and conceded many goals. How have you prepared for this match, especially since Sweden has just changed their coach?
Rebrov: We've watched a lot of Sweden's recent matches. Yes, Sweden lost, but they never had their best team available during the qualifiers. The same goes for us, in the end. The attacking players they have are very strong, and tomorrow's match will be very tough for us.
Outside the stadium, there's a list of all the countries and cities where you've played since the war began in 2022. What does that mean to you?
Zabarnyi: It's tough to play home games in different countries. We're very grateful to all the countries that have welcomed us since the war started and supported us wherever we've played. If we could have played in Kyiv, it would have been much better - we would have been with our own people. But I'm also very happy to play here, the fans come to support us.
What would it mean for Ukraine to qualify for the World Cup?
Rebrov: It's hugely important for our people. They've been living with war day and night for four years - we have to do something for them. They deserve it. I'm sure the players will show their character and sense of responsibility tomorrow, because our country needs to be at this World Cup.
A word about Matviy Ponomarenko, who has delivered outstanding performances with Dynamo Kyiv?
Rebrov: I've been impressed by his qualities at Dynamo Kyiv, that's why I called him up for this camp. I can't say if he'll play tomorrow - you'll see.
Is it an advantage that the Ukrainian league resumed before the Swedish league, which still hasn't started?
Rebrov: If you look at the Swedish squad, very few of their players play in the domestic league. We respect our opponent and are focused on our own strengths.
What kind of pressure do you feel, given that Ukraine has only played in one World Cup in its history?
Rebrov: Of course we feel that pressure, but all the players are fully focused. We know how emotional this match can be, but we're making sure to be ready.
Ukraine's head-to-head record against Sweden is in Ukraine's favour - can that help?
Zabarnyi: We need to prepare properly, and that's exactly what we're doing now.
What kind of match are you expecting tomorrow?
Rebrov: I know Sweden is a very tough team with a lot of character. We need to focus on believing in ourselves, and tomorrow we have to pay attention to every aspect of the game. Preparing a tactical plan can help you win, but it's not a guarantee.
You played in Ukraine's only World Cup appearance in 2006. Can you compare that team to your current squad?
Rebrov: It's very hard to compare the two teams, but I can say that this team has a huge desire to win - they show it in every match. Football has changed a lot since then, and the intensity is much higher now. I know this team has all the intensity needed to try to win.