The Ukrainian soccer federation has brought attention to the ongoing conflict in their country by unveiling an installation in Munich featuring a stadium stand destroyed in the war. The stand, originally from Kharkiv’s Sonyachny stadium built for Euro 2012, was displayed in a square in Munich ahead of Ukraine's first match at the European Championship against Romania.
The installation serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of the war, with the stand symbolizing the 500 sports infrastructure facilities in Ukraine that have suffered damage from Russian bombings and missile strikes. Former Ukraine coach and striker Andriy Shevchenko, who now serves as the president of the country’s soccer federation, emphasized the significance of the moment, stating, “We play today for the country. We play today for the people who defend our lives and our country.”
The Sonyachny stadium, once a training base for the Netherlands team during Euro 2012, holds sentimental value for Ukrainians. Shevchenko expressed his personal connection to the stadium, likening its destruction to the devastation of a home. The stand and installation will travel to different German cities, with the next stop being Düsseldorf, where Ukraine will face Slovakia in their next Group E match on Friday.
Shevchenko highlighted the resilience of the Ukrainian people during the conflict, emphasizing the importance of continuing with daily life despite the challenges. He underscored the role of sports in society, describing it as a powerful tool when used for positive purposes. The participation of the Ukrainian team in the European Championship sends a strong message to the world that Ukraine remains steadfast in its pursuit of freedom and democracy.
This initiative not only showcases the unity and determination of the Ukrainian people but also serves as a reminder of the human cost of war. Through sports and cultural exchanges, Ukraine aims to demonstrate its commitment to rebuilding and moving forward despite the challenges it faces.
