Ukraine's players make nation proud despite falling short of World Cup

Wales captain Gareth Bale consoled Ukrainian players after the match

Ukraine's World Cup dream is over after a cruel 1-0 defeat to Wales in Sunday's play-off final left a nation ravaged by war without the release of seeing their country compete in Qatar later this year.

Heads bowed, the Ukrainian players were still saluted like heroes from the small band of visiting fans decked out in blue and yellow flags in one corner of the Cardiff City stadium on Sunday.

The tradesman had travelled with his family from their home in London to support Ukraine.

"I have three brothers on the frontline," he added. "I asked them whether I should come back and they told me it was better to stay and send money for petrol to make Molotov cocktails."

The 25-year-old admitted earlier this week to having "one hand on the weapon" when war broke out before being convinced he could do more good by using his profile positively.

On the field, he was outstanding as Ukraine made a nation proud by beating Scotland 3-1 on Wednesday in their first competitive match since Russia's invasion.

"Today it's Ukraine but tomorrow Russians can be in your country, so we need to be united."

"We are fully aware of what is going on, we just wanted to show our appreciation to them," said Wales manager Robert Page.

After the Ukrainian players disappeared down the tunnel to a dressing room decorated with a flag sent by soldiers fighting on the frontline, the Welsh squad and crowd united for a chorus of the traditional folk song "Yma o Hyd" (We're still here).

"We have war raging all over the country, women and children dying on a daily basis, our infrastructure ruined by the Russian barbarians," said Ukraine coach Oleksandr Petrakov.

"God forbid it would touch you and you feel what we can feel deep inside."

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Originally published as Ukraine's players make nation proud despite falling short of World Cup