While the war rages on at home, Ukraine’s record champions Dynamo Kyiv are facing their first competitive game in 221 days.
On Wednesday (07/20/2022) the Ukrainian record champions in Poland are in the second round of the qualification for Champions League against Fenerbahce Istanbul for the first time since the beginning of the war. The team also wants to win for their country.
“Of course we support our soldiers and the armed forces in Ukraine”explained Kiev defender Oleksandr Syrota before the game: “We’re only here because they make it possible. They’re doing a great job. We hope we’ll win for them.”
“Home game” in Lodz, Poland
Due to the uncertain situation around Kyiv, the first leg will be played at the Miejski Stadium in Lodz, Poland. The second leg then rises a week later at the Turkish runners-up in Istanbul.
Despite the circumstances, the mood within the team is good, any distraction from the terrible pictures at home and the fears for relatives and friends is welcome. Syrota explains: “We’re playing the Champions League, we’ve prepared for it and I think we’ll be 100 per cent ready.”
Only test and charity games since the beginning of the war
But it is also in the game “It’s hard not to think about what’s happening in Ukraine”admits Syrota. “Nevertheless, we have to focus on Fenerbahce now.” Because even without a lot of competition practice, the team of the Romanian coach Mircea Lucescu would like to reach the next round and keep dreaming of the group stage in the premier class.
Since the beginning of the war and the associated termination of the league, Kyiv had kept fit with a few test and benefit games – such as in April at Borussia Dortmund or about a week ago against Olympique Lyon. “I think we will be in perfect form. At least I hope so”explained Syrota with a view to the qualification.
The compulsory game premiere in the Champions League should only be the beginning for Ukrainian football. Despite the ongoing war attacks, the association is considering restarting the national league from August 23.