Second-tier side FC Chernihiv face Dynamo Kyiv in the Ukrainian Cup final on Wednesday, a match that seemed impossible during the brutal siege of their city. The club, battling relegation, are one upset away from qualifying for the Europa League after a remarkable semi-final victory against Metalist 1925 Kharkiv, despite being reduced to ten men in the fifth minute.
The final, to be played in Lviv, is a symbol of resilience for Chernihiv, a northern city that suffered devastating losses after Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. During the month-long siege, Artem Rakitin, a special forces officer known as 'Rocket', led the evacuation of about 25,000 women and children. He later played key roles in liberating Snake Island and Boyko Towers, before losing his right eye to shrapnel.
Rakitin now trains a group of teenagers at a local gym, mentoring them in physical and mental discipline. He recently formed a new ultras group for FC Chernihiv, culled from these youths, to provide vocal support at away games. 'Having a club representing our city on this stage makes it the greatest moment in the history of Chernihiv football,' he said.
FC Chernihiv's rise comes after the destruction of the city's former premier league club, Desna, whose stadium was reduced to ruins by Russian shelling in March 2022. The club's own facilities were bombed during the siege, with the main pitch directly between the opposing forces. Its renovation is due to be completed this week, and the team will play on it for the first time in over four years this Saturday.
The cup final represents a beacon of hope for a city that has endured immense suffering, showcasing the spirit of Ukrainian football amid ongoing conflict.
