On 25 March, the Ukrainian Olympic team will play a friendly match with the hosts in Fukuoka, Japan. Ruslan Rotan's team will start preparing for this match on 18 March in Szeged, Hungary.
And today, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Ukraine Matsuda Kuniori hosted a reception. The Ukrainian delegation that visited the embassy included Acting Minister of Youth and Sports Maksym Bidnyi, President of the Ukrainian Football Association Andriy Shevchenko, UAF Secretary General Ihor Hryshchenko, representatives of the coaching staff and players of the Ukrainian Olympic team.
"We are looking forward to your arrival in Japan. It's spring and cherry blossom time - a very beautiful season. But as an ambassador of Japan, I must warn you that the Japanese team is very difficult and will fight on their own field to the end. I really hope that despite your busy schedule in Japan, you will find time to experience our lifestyle and taste Japanese food. I hope you will have a great time in Japan!" Matsuda Kuniori said in his address.
In turn, Andriy Shevchenko said: "After the full-scale invasion of Russia, the Japan Football Association provided direct support to the UAF by allocating $ 100,000 to help Ukrainian football. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you once again for your support!
We are also grateful for your help in organising a friendly match to be held on 25 March in Fukuoka. Japan invited the Ukrainian delegation and covered all the expenses. And I believe that our countries will strengthen cooperation not only in the field of football."
"I would also like to thank the Ambassador and all the people of Japan for their hospitality and willingness to help Ukraine - and Ukrainian sport in particular. You were very right, Mr Ambassador, that the Japanese team will be ready to fight to the end, to the last. This is a good example of how such things can only remain in sport and on the basis of Olympic values.
I would like to wish our team to use this opportunity to the fullest and gain the necessary experience. We expect the best results from you, in particular at the Olympic Games in Paris," said Maxim Bidny.