Upcoming Challenge: Former Dynamo Player Analyzes Kyiv’s Chances Against Paphos in Champions League Qualifiers
Roman Bezus, a former player of Kyiv's Dynamo and the Ukrainian national team, shared his insights regarding the prospects of the Ukrainian club succeeding in the upcoming two-legged tie against Cypriot team Paphos in the third qualifying round of the Champions League.
A text-based live broadcast of the Dynamo — Paphos match will be available on ZN.UA.
According to Bezus, Dynamo is considered the favorite in this matchup.
Although Paphos secured the championship on Cyprus last season and boasts talented players, Dynamo Kyiv still has a strong chance to advance.
Bezus noted that Paphos features skilled individual performers and can tactically delay the game, especially by running down the clock and complicating the opponent's rhythm.
He emphasized that Paphos is known for their provocative tactics and often plays on the edge, successfully sometimes gaining an advantage.
Bezus also pointed out that in the previous qualifying round, Paphos was not weaker than Maccabi, having scored an important goal in the first half of their second-leg encounter, despite losing overall.
He believes that if Dynamo can control the ball, particularly in midfield, they will significantly improve their chances and avoid unnecessary difficulties.
Should Kyiv's team be able to keep possession and focus, significant problems are unlikely.
Conversely, if they get entangled in physical battles, Paphos, with quick flank play and a fast striker skilled at finishing attacks, could seize the moment.
The first match will be played today, nominally at Dynamo's home ground—though due to wartime circumstances, it will be held in Lublin, Poland.
The kickoff is scheduled for 9:00 p.m.
Kyiv time.
The return leg is set for August 12 in Cyprus.
Bezus, 34, played for Omonia Nicosia since 2022 and became a free agent this summer.
With extensive experience in European competitions, he views this match as another opportunity to showcase his skills on the continental stage.