The friendly match Canada — Ukraine (4:2), which took place in Toronto as part of the Canadian Shield, was special not only because it was the debut appearance of the blue and yellows on Canadian soil.
Photo: UAF
Photo: UAFFirstly, our team took to the field wearing the shirt of Lutsk's 'Volyn' and the military greatcoat of former footballer Roman Maksymyuk, who went to defend our homeland from the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation and is currently considered missing in action. The purpose of this action is to support the military's family and to show the whole world that the war concerns everyone.
Secondly, the captain of the Ukrainian national team in this match, Mykola Matviyenko, led the team with a special captain's armband on his arm, which has a deep meaning and carries a powerful message.
On it are the emblems of the combat brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the main forces of the security and defense sector, which maintain their positions on the front line every day. This armband is a sign of gratitude to everyone who fights for our freedom.
This is a tribute to the heroes who allow us to step onto the field, play under the blue and yellow flag, represent Ukraine in the world, and not stop the development of football even during a full-scale war.
We remember, we thank, we play — for those on the front line, for all who believe in victory.
