Against the backdrop of war, Ukraine hopes to show the ‘spirit of our nation' at Euro 2024

When Ukraine’s players step out on the field to play Romania in their opening group game of Euro 2024, they will do so with more than just sporting glory at stake. In the years that have followed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the nation’s soccer team has become a beacon of hope for a country still suffering from war. It’s a responsibility that the team takes very seriously and one which it will use as motivation at this year’s European Championship – the first major tournament Ukraine has qualified for since the war began in 2022.

Ukraine finished third in its Euro 2024 qualifying group, but beat Bosnia-Herzegovina and then Iceland in a tense playoff campaign to qualify for the major tournament. Ukraine will now have the chance to provide another morale boost for the nation as it tests itself against Europe’s elite, first facing Romania on Monday before playing Belgium and Slovakia in its remaining Group E games.

Ukraine’s head coach, Sergiy Rebrov, understands that football is not the most important thing in Ukraine at this time. Nevertheless, he believes that their successful performance in Europe can give positive emotions to the people in Ukraine and show Europe the real character of the country. Rebrov has faced challenges managing the team during wartime, including the inability to play or train in their home country due to damaged stadiums and the constant threat of violence. Despite these difficulties, the team remains resilient and motivated, reminding themselves of what they are fighting for every time they wear the yellow and blue jersey.

The European Championship is an opportunity for Ukraine to represent their war-torn country on the global stage and show the spirit of the nation. Rebrov encourages his players to give their maximum effort and display passion and character on the field. Although qualification alone brought some good news to Ukrainians, the team aims to do itself proud at the tournament.

The backdrop of the ongoing war highlights the importance of sports in boosting morale. Ukrainian sports stars across different disciplines have been called upon to represent their country and draw attention to its needs. Ukraine’s soccer team strives to do their part in boosting morale and hopes for the end of the war and the rebuilding of the country.