KIEV: It’s a time of rejoicing for Ukrainians who have endured more than two years of Russian occupation and ongoing war. Forgetting all sorrow and misery, the net of happiness has shaken. The whole country is overjoyed at the last-minute qualification for Euro Cup football. A candle of joy burns higher than Russian missiles.
Ukraine secured a ticket to the Euro Cup in Germany in June with a 2-1 win over Iceland in a crucial play-off match. Ukrainian football players are shouting to the world that we are here despite the war. Ukraine will compete in the Euro Cup in Group E along with Belgium, Slovakia and Romania. The first match is against Romania on June 17 in Munich. Ukraine came back from one goal down. This is the country’s fourth consecutive qualification for the Euro Cup.
Team captain Oleksandr Zinchenko said that he is very proud to be a Ukrainian of the same blood as those who sacrificed their lives for freedom. The skipper said the play-offs were one of the most emotional matches. Zinchenko added that it was another dream come true and he was very grateful to the fans who helped him during a difficult time.
Coach Serhii Rebrov said that during the war it was difficult for the team to concentrate on football. Missiles are flying every day. The mission is to show that we are all alive and fighting against the Russians. Rebrov also said that Europe’s support is needed. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the fighting spirit shown by the team at the most difficult time. Congratulations on this crucial victory. Despite the hardships, the people of Ukraine are fighting back. Victory is certain, President X said in a note. Zelensky noted that Ukraine and its people are here, will be, and are being declared every day when the enemy tries to destroy them.
‘Home’ matches abroad
Due to the war, all of Ukraine’s Euro Cup qualifiers were in other countries. Many Ukrainians, refugees of the war, enthusiastically attended all these venues. The players had the same ‘feel’ as playing at home. Ukrainians also flocked to Poland to watch the crucial playoff match. In the qualifiers, Ukraine was drawn in a group with defending champions Italy and runners-up England. Both teams were tied. Both the teams lost in the second match. North Macedonia, Malta and Bosnia and Herzegovina also progressed.
2024-03-28 18:15:18
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