Andriy Shevchenko, the legendary Ukrainian soccer player, is hesitant to discuss certain topics that evoke deep emotions. These include the fear brought about by the wailing of air-raid sirens and the knowledge that missiles were aimed at him, his loved ones, and his home. The thought of more drones approaching, with the only hope of shooting them down, is too overwhelming for him to articulate.
Shevchenko does not wish to recount the experiences relayed to him by Ukrainian soldiers stationed at the battlefield. These stories depict the stark division that now exists in places that were once familiar and close, now transformed into a terrifying front line. He struggles to find the words, pauses, and swallows hard. “I don’t want to speak about what is going on,” he says.
One untold story that Shevchenko finds particularly difficult to share comes from the city of Irpin, on the outskirts of the Ukrainian capital. This city witnessed some of the bloodiest and most intense fighting in the early days of the war. A mass grave was discovered in the neighboring town of Bucha. When Ukrainian forces finally regained control of Irpin after a month-long counteroffensive, they found a city scarred beyond recognition. Reports suggested that 70 percent of its structures had been destroyed or damaged, including the soccer stadium.
Months later, Shevchenko visited the city and witnessed the devastation firsthand. As he walked around the shattered remains of the stadium, he saw a group of children playing soccer amidst the ruins. Despite the absence of a proper stadium, they displayed remarkable resilience and simply wanted to play the game they loved. Shevchenko recognized that this adaptability is a strength shared by many Ukrainians during times of adversity.
In the midst of escalating conflict in Irpin, a talented young midfielder named Heorhiy Sudakov sought refuge wherever he could find it. He sent a photo from an air-raid bunker, showing his pregnant wife, Lisa, resting her head on his shoulder. Just over a year later, Sudakov emerged as one of the brightest talents in European soccer, playing a key role in Ukraine’s success at the European Under-21 Championship.
Despite being eliminated in the semifinals, Ukraine’s performance in the championship was a resounding triumph, considering their exceptional circumstances. Shevchenko, acknowledging the significance of this achievement, emphasizes the importance of building a platform for young players and providing hope for future generations.
In Ukraine, the future remains uncertain. The country’s soccer league resumed last year, but games are played in empty stadiums, accompanied by air-raid sirens that still evoke fear. Many foreign players have left due to the ongoing conflict. Some clubs, like Shakhtar, have relocated their academies to protect their players and families. Clubs find themselves exiled from their traditional territories due to the shifting front line.
Shevchenko acknowledges the need to live in the present and adapt to the ever-changing circumstances dictated by the war. Plans for the future are uncertain, as any moment could bring sudden change. Despite the challenges, Ukrainian clubs strive to support their athletes and keep them prepared to play.
In the grand scheme of things, soccer may not be a priority in a country torn by conflict. However, talking to Shevchenko reminds us that it can play a meaningful role. It serves as a way to unite people and maintain international attention on Ukraine’s struggles. Soccer has embraced this role, with stadiums across Europe displaying Ukrainian flags and broadcasting messages of peace.
Shevchenko and Zinchenko, as ambassadors for United24, have organized an exhibition game called the Game4Ukraine to help rebuild a school in Chernihiv. The support and participation from clubs, broadcasters, and stars highlight the importance of keeping the war in the news and rallying support from around the world.
Beyond its symbolic value, soccer also matters because it represents a chance for normalcy and a reminder that life must go on, even during wartime. Celebrating the achievements of the under-21 team and the national team’s progress sends a message that there is still room for life and sport. Despite the war, Ukrainians strive to live each day as best they can.
Inspired by his conversation with the children in Irpin, Shevchenko took the initiative to raise funds (approximately €600,000) to ensure that they could have a proper stadium to play the sport they love. He organized a gala event in Milan, his former home city, with the support of the club where he once played.
These stories from Ukraine’s soccer world serve as a reminder that amidst the chaos of war, soccer can provide solace, unity, and hope. It keeps the country in the global consciousness and demonstrates the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people.
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