Ukraine striker Artem Dovbyk has urged his teammates to deliver a strong response in tonight’s UEFA Nations League away fixture against Northern Ireland, insisting the national side must avenge the heavy 3-0 defeat suffered in the reverse meeting.

Speaking ahead of the clash in an interview with the Ukrainian Association of Football press service, Dovbyk acknowledged that the opening encounter dealt the squad a heavy blow, while stressing that the dressing room is determined to set the record straight.

"The first match unfolded in a way where we were dealt a serious blow," Dovbyk said. "Right now inside the squad, I see how everyone is preparing for this game, and we need to deliver a proper response because, in my view, the Ukraine national team must not allow heavy defeats by a 3-0 scoreline. That is far too much and perhaps did not reflect the actual flow of the game."

The forward emphasized that tightening up defensively and eliminating unforced errors will be decisive if Ukraine are to take points from the return fixture. "We need to make fewer mistakes. I can see that the team is heading into tonight's match with a very serious mindset," he added.

Northern Ireland host Ukraine tonight, with kickoff scheduled for 20:45 CET.