Carlos Paraco: "Matches against Shakhtar are special"

Venezuelan forward of "Kharkiv" Carlos Paraco - about the upcoming match against "Shakhtar", Gleiker Mendosa, and his adaptation in the team:

— After two rounds, we have a win and a loss. How would you evaluate this start of the season? What is the main thing for you to improve after the match with "Polissya"?

— Honestly, I think the last match is the one after which we need to draw conclusions and improve. It was mainly our mistakes, our own actions. We have only played two matches this season, so we will turn the page on that match and, as always, try to win in the next matches.

— The match against "Polissya" was a good lesson for the team. What, in your opinion, needs to be done differently to play against "Shakhtar" at a different level?

— Honestly, it was a failed match for us. As I said before: mainly due to our own mistakes. We will try to turn this page. The match against "Shakhtar" is a different match, and we will approach it differently, with more responsibility and focus than other matches.

— The reigning champion is ahead. Does the psychological preparation change when you understand that any mistake can be very costly?

— Honestly, we know that this is an important match. As I said before: matches against "Shakhtar" are special. We need to be fully concentrated, and we know that we will pay dearly for any mistake. So we will try to do everything perfectly to win this match.

— You haven't scored for our team yet, gradually adapting to the team play. How important is it for you personally to show yourself in the match against such an opponent?

— Honestly, I think in the first two matches I tried to do my best. I know that goals and assists will come soon. I always try to help the team to the maximum with my game. And what could be better than doing it in a match against "Shakhtar," the current champion of the tournament?

— Mendosa is currently playing for "Shakhtar," with whom you played together at "Kryvbas." Have you already talked before the match? Is there a special feeling when a former teammate is against you?

— Yes, honestly, we always keep in touch, always communicate. Especially this week, when we have to play against each other, and this is after everything we went through together last year at "Kryvbas." I think it will be a good match, especially against "Shakhtar" and especially considering that I will be playing against him.

— "Shakhtar" is a team that controls the ball a lot and forces the opponent to constantly work without it. What kind of football do we need to show to create problems for the champion and get a result?

— We know that this is a team that plays well with the ball. They have very strong players capable of making a difference, and they control the ball a lot. I think we need to show our game, our football, and not be afraid of mistakes. I believe this will be the most important thing to win the match.

— What do you want the fans to see from Paraco in this match?

— As always, I want to show my best level for the team, especially in this match. I want the fans to see what I can show and what I can give to the team. And I hope to score a goal and help us win the next match.