Prokopchuk: 'Shame It's Not in Chernivtsi' as Obolon Face Former Club

Obolon Kyiv travel to face Bukovyna Chernivtsi in round two of the Ukrainian Premier League, and Kyrylo Prokopchuk is bracing for an emotional reunion with his former club. The Obolon defender admitted the special feeling hasn't hit yet and will probably arrive closer to kickoff. He is looking forward to seeing old teammates and friends, but only before the whistle. "During the match I have no friends - only opponents," he said. Prokopchuk also rued the fact the game isn't taking place in Chernivtsi. He described the atmosphere there as brilliant, with full stands, and said even visiting teams enjoy playing in front of such support. That, he suggested, might work slightly in Obolon's favor. The player singled out Vadym Vitenchuk as the Bukovyna acquaintance he is most eager to meet. He praised the club's squad and staff, calling it a very good collective. He also noted that Bukovyna controlled possession last season and tried to play on the front foot. The lineup has changed since then, but the general approach appears unchanged. Prokopchuk does not believe Bukovyna rely on one individual. If one player struggled, others stepped up, he explained, so Obolon must stay sharp against every attacking threat. He missed the full match because he was traveling, but watched a highlights package, and the coaching staff went through the details in a team meeting. Now it is about executing on the pitch. Bukovyna vs Obolon kicks off on August 8 at 18:00.