The Zhytomyr club already proved its competitiveness last season, finishing third in the Ukrainian Premier League, ahead of Dynamo Kyiv, and taking points from Shakhtar. Club vice president Oleksandr Khatskevich noted that Copenhagen is a serious opponent at the Champions League level, but the outcome is anything but. Furthermore, Poliesia head coach Ruslan Rotan has a particular motivation against the Danes: in 2014, it was Copenhagen that prevented his Dnipro from qualifying for the Champions League.
The Danish giants, who have won 16 championship titles, have several weaknesses that Poliesia could exploit. With starting goalkeeper Dominik Kotarski absent due to the 2026 World Cup, Runar Alex Runarsson, known for his inconsistency and propensity for error, will likely take over in goal. This gives the Wolves the chance to actively harass him with long-range shots and load the penalty area. Key Danish midfielder Thomas Delaney will also miss the match due to suspension. Against this backdrop, Poliesie can rely on counterattacks, utilizing Leandro Andrade's speed and experience, as well as high pressure to force the opposing goalkeeper into errors.
Pre-match data analysis shows a high probability that the teams will trade goals. Meanwhile, Copenhagen has conceded in each of their friendlies, and Poliesie's defense is still developing its cohesion, especially with new goalkeeper Heorhiy Bushchan.
