Player of the Ukrainian national handball team Yevheniy Zhuk commented on the last match of the team in the group stage and the quarterfinal against France at Euro-2026.

Let's recall, on January 28th in Rijeka, the blue-yellow team beat the Czech Republic (5:3) and advanced to the quarterfinal of Euro-2026 where they will face France. The post-match comment by the blue-yellow player Yevheniy Zhuk can be found on AFU.

"If everything had gone according to our scenario against the Czech Republic, we wouldn't have conceded three goals. It was tough, especially in the second half when the opponent switched to a five-man field from the start. Overall, we controlled the game but made some mistakes at certain moments. So, we need to analyze such situations as four on five. There's something to think about and discuss...  

Regarding my own performance, it was good that I scored a goal. But globally, I can't say I'm fully satisfied. There were moments, of course, but if we don't capitalize on them in such matches, it doesn't matter whether there are opportunities or not. Better to have 2-3 chances, and all of them end up as goals. 

France is a very good opponent with whom we've played several times. Their players are highly technical and individualistic in their approach. It's a good team that plays and allows others to play as well. Playing against such an opponent is pleasant because you don't have to think about them digging in and sitting on their half of the court. The French will play open. And we also want to play brightly for the fans. I think it will be a very interesting match," — said Yevheniy Zhuk.

Quarterfinal

1. January 31, 2026. France – Ukraine. 17:00 (Riga)

2. January 31, 2026. Armenia — Croatia. 20:00 (Kaunas)

3. February 1, 2026. Portugal — Belgium. 17:00 (Ljubljana)

4. February 1, 2026. Spain — Italy. 20:30 (Ljubljana)

Semifinal

February 4, 2026. Winner 1 – Winner 3. 18:00/21:30 (Ljubljana)

February 4, 2026. Winner 2 – Winner 4. 18:00/21:30 (Ljubljana)

Third place match

February 7, 2026. 17:00 (Ljubljana)

Final

February 7, 2026. 20:30 (Ljubljana)

Match start times – Kyiv time.