Nikita Popugayev: «We took advantage of goal–scoring chances»
21.09.2025
Neftekhimik forward Nikita Popugayev speaks with the media after a following 4–1 win over Avtomobilist.
Nikita, firstly, congratulations on your KHL debut, secondly, on the win, and thirdly, you managed to score in your very first game...– It was simply incredible. Evgeny Mityakin told me before the faceoff, "Serikov is about to shoot—stand and cover the goalie, you will score." And that is exactly what happened. Scoring is always a pleasure; I have not felt that in a long time, not since last season. And here in this league, it is much more enjoyable.
– Today, as a rookie of the team, you took a lap of honor before the warm–up. Were you nervous when you found out you would made the roster?
– No, I treated it like any other regular game. I know my character and psychology.
– What can you say about today's game?
– It was a good, active game against a good opponent. They were taking more penalties at times, but we took advantage of those opportunities and scored the goals we needed in the third period. Everything worked out well for us.
– How did the team manage to secure the win in the third period? It seemed like the home team had the initiative.
– We talked to the guys after the second period and realized we needed to speed up a bit and be more aggressive. We needed to get to the net, try to outplay them, and that is how we got power plays. We tried to outplay them, they did not know what to do and took penalties, and we took advantage of goal–scoring chances we had.
– Did you get a feel what the KHL is?
– I felt it back in Omsk in the summer. And now, officially, it is a new stage in my life, a new adventure. I think it is wonderful!
– At the end of the game, we had to play 3–on–5 hockey. What were your emotions like?
– I do not know. When Evgeny Mityakin came on, it was such a relief. I realized that everything would be concreted.
