Oleg Znarok: "All of our players did a great job"

Head coach Oleg Znarok spoke after the 2018 Olympic Games semi-final victory against the Czech Republic in South Korea:

- The first period was tense. Was the opening goal so important?

- Yes, but we didn't play in the first frame. However, we improved in the second.

- Did you know that Nikita Gusev's goal would be given?

- Yes, the guys above us said that everything was fine.

- Were you worried that Ilya Kovalchuk would be given a 5+20?

- Yes.

- Did the Czech Republic play as you expected?

- We played well. Instead of looking at the opponents, we focus on our own game.

- What happened in the third period?

- We tried to kill the game a bit.

- Did you plan for Vladislav Gavrikov to join the rush so much?

- We have our tactics, but it's pointless talking about them now.

- Did Ivan Telegin's pass to Vladislav Gavrikov surprise you?

- What's surprising? Our best players are participating.

- What does the Olympic final mean to you?

- We have been striving for this the past four years.

- Will it be special if you play Germany?

- Any opponent is important for us.

- What was the most nervy moment today?

- Two penalties in a row, probably.

- Did the fans help you win?

- Yes, you know what situation we are in.

- Russian figure skaters won gold and silver.

- We watched it on television, we are proud of them.

- Did Pavel Datsyuk make the difference today?

- Everyone played well.

- Is one day enough to prepare for the final?

- Yes.

- What can you say about the goalkeeper?

- The whole team, including the goaltender, did a great job.

- Russia against Canada would be a huge final.

- Wait a bit longer.

Russian Ice Hockey Federation