FC Chernihiv's stadium was situated directly between Ukrainian and Russian forces and was bombed by the latter. The club, battling relegation from the second tier in a city under attack, is one upset away from the Europa League.
A Beacon of Hope
A minivan with darkened windows pulls up at a gym in central Chernihiv. Inside, Artem Rakitin, a mentor and war veteran who lost his right eye to shrapnel, delivers a pep talk to young men. He trains them twice a week, instilling self-discipline and preparing them to defend their country. 'One of the main targets is for them not to become alcoholics, drug addicts or anything like that,' he says. 'It's to put their energy in the right places, and to support the right team.' That team is FC Chernihiv, which will face Dynamo Kyiv in a Ukrainian Cup final on Wednesday.
Against All Odds
FC Chernihiv are battling relegation from the second tier but won their semi-final against Metalist 1925 Kharkiv on penalties despite being reduced to 10 men in the fifth minute. They are one upset from an improbable Europa League spot. The city of Chernihiv, near the Russian and Belarusian borders, has suffered devastating losses since February 2022.
Rakitin led the evacuation of about 25,000 women and children during Russia's siege. He later played vital roles in liberating Snake Island and the Boyko Towers gas platforms. 'It's a crucial moment for us,' he says of the final in Lviv. 'Having a club representing our city on this stage makes it the greatest moment in the history of Chernihiv football.'
Fan Support and Resilience
Rakitin formed a new ultras group from the teenagers he trains. 'At every away game our support is very vocal,' he says. One fan, Bohdan, remembers watching FC Desna at the central stadium in 2017. In March 2022, the venue was destroyed by Russian shelling. Desna never competed again. FC Chernihiv's ascent, forged by locals, is a compelling response. Their stadium was bombed but renovation is due to be completed this week.
Youth Academy as Hope
FC Chernihiv's academy offers hope to youngsters. About 500 children train regularly, many having lost parents in the war. Ihor Bobovych, a youth coach, says, 'It gives them the opportunity to train, and not to sit in basements. An academy can be a beacon of hope.' Chernihiv remains under attack; a Russian drone exploded overhead during a drive between the club's base and the city centre.
Cup Glory
FC Chernihiv's annual budget of £560,000 is the lowest in their division, but they have earned their shot at Dynamo Kyiv. About 900 fans will attend the final. Rakitin and his proteges have prepared a visual display representing the city's heritage. 'We have prepared, and we will surprise you,' he says. A city's story of sporting resilience may yet find more ways to stir the soul.
