Former Shakhtar winger Bernard, who currently plays for Panathinaikos, is hopeful about the upcoming confrontation with Dnipro-1 in the second qualifying round of the Champions League. Bernard, who has previous experience playing against Dnipro, acknowledges the competitive nature and skill of the Ukrainian team. He believes that Panathinaikos must approach the match with caution but is confident in their ability to succeed. The outcome of this match is crucial for Panathinaikos as a win guarantees their participation in the group stage of the Conference League. The first leg of the match will be held on July 25, followed by the second leg on August 1.
Former Shakhtar winger Bernard, who currently plays for Panathinaikos, shared his hopes from the confrontation with Dnipro-1 in the second qualifying round of the Champions League.
Panathinaikos winger Bernard talks about his experience playing against Dnepr, on the basis of which Dnepr-1 was later founded.
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“I played against Dnipro when I was a Shakhtar player. Of course, many years have passed, but I know the nature of this team. I met them last year in a friendly match (1:1), when I was still at Al Sharjah. They have a competitive squad with experienced players and have learned how to get things done.”
The football player said that the Ukrainian team should be treated with respect.
“They have the skills to play in the Champions League and they deserve it. We must approach them with caution. I think we will be ready. I’m looking forward to playing in Europe again because it’s important for the club and the players.”
Bernard at Panathinaikos: Photo: INTIME SPORTS
Bernard emphasized the importance of the match against Dnipro-1 in the second round of qualifying for the Champions League, as a win guarantees the team’s minimum participation in the group stage of the Conference League.
“Everyone understands how important the game with Dnipro-1 is. Because if we pass, we will play in the European Cup group. This is the first game of the season, but for us it is like the final. You can win a lot in these two games, but you can also lose a lot more.”
Winger believes in the success of his team.
“We have to keep our focus because we can make a good start to the season. We have a good team and we will show good football this year. We were strong and played well last year, but this year we are stronger and will perform better,” SPORT24 quoted Bernard as saying.
- The match between Dnipro-1 and Panathinaikos will be held on July 25 and August 1. The first match will take place in Slovakia;
- Bernard moved to Shakhtar from Brazil’s Atlético Mineiro for €25 million in August 2013. The transfer was the most expensive acquisition in Pitmen’s history;
- The footballer played 157 matches for the Donetsk team, scoring 28 goals and making 35 assists. In the summer of 2018, the Brazilian left the club for free and moved to Everton;
- At the start of the last campaign, the 30-year-old Brazilian moved to Panathinaikos. In 35 games, he has scored two goals and provided five assists.
