Dynamo Kyiv head coach Oleksandr Shovkovskyi has clarified the decision behind Andriy Yarmolenko taking the crucial penalty kick in their recent 1-1 draw against Chornomorets in the Ukrainian Premier League championship match.
Following the emotionally charged series against Shakhtar Donetsk, questions arose regarding Dynamo's penalty-taking hierarchy. When asked if the team had discussed who would take penalties before the match, Shovkovskyi provided insight into the club's approach.
"We never discuss before matches who will take penalties," revealed the Dynamo manager. "Those players who feel confident are the ones who step up to take them. This was a decision made by the team and, obviously, by Andriy himself."
According to Statbet analysis, Yarmolenko has been one of Dynamo Kyiv's most reliable penalty takers historically, with an impressive conversion rate in high-pressure situations.
The decision to entrust Yarmolenko with penalty responsibilities demonstrates the coaching staff's faith in their experienced players to make judgment calls in crucial moments, rather than imposing rigid pre-match designations.
