Ukraine Players Endure Hellish Journey Across 450 Miles as Air Travel Remains Banned.

Ukraine’s national football team embarked on a gruelling 450-mile road trip from Kyiv to Rzeszow, Poland for their Euro 2024 qualifier match against England at Wembley. Due to the ongoing war with Russia, there is no air travel in Ukraine, so the team must travel by bus or train to their ‘home’ fixtures in neighbouring Poland. The logistics require military-like planning, and with no crowds allowed due to security concerns, there is a significant financial impact on the sport. However, Ukraine’s footballers recognise that their job is to strive for normality and keep their football alive, unlike those fighting on the front line. The match at Wembley will not only be a game for the players but will bring inspiration and positive emotion to the people of Ukraine, who can watch it live on Ukrainian TV and Channel 4 in the UK.

Ukraine’s trip to England for the Euro 2024 qualifier was complicated by the ongoing war

Despite the challenges, Ukraine’s players remain committed to their sport and to bringing inspiration to their country. The match against England at Wembley is an opportunity to express their gratitude to the British people for their support. Head coach, Ruslan Rotan, hopes that the game will boost morale back home and bring positive emotion to those fighting on the front line.

Ukraine manager Ruslan Rotan is in interim charge of the national side, as well as UPL duties

The road to Wembley has not been easy for Ukraine’s footballers, but they remain dedicated to their sport and to their country. The match at Wembley is a symbol of hope for Ukraine, and they hope to inspire their fellow citizens with their performance.