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Shakhtar Donetsk play for first time since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in ‘Stop War’ friendly against Olympiacos, as players emerge from tunnel draped in flags of their war-torn nation in emotional tribute
- Shakhtar Donetsk played their first match since the invasion of Russia on Ukraine
- The Ukrainian giants took on Greek side Olympiacos in a ‘Stop War’ friendly
- Players walked out of the tunnel wearing flags in support of their war-torn nation
- Shakhtar also face Fenerbahce, Lechia Gdansk and Hadjuk Split in other games
Shakhtar Donetsk played their first match on Saturday since Russia’s invasion on Ukraine in February.
The Ukrainian giants took to the field against Greek champions Olympiacos at the 32,000-seater Karaiskakis Stadium in Athens, where 5,000 fans were in attendance.
Aimed to raise funds for refugees amid the ongoing crisis, the match was also for those affected by the invasion, whilst sending a message of peace.
Shakhtar will play across Europe in one of four clashes, with all gate receipts being donated to humanitarian and aid concerns in Ukraine.
Players wore shirts bearing the names of Ukrainian cities that have seen fighting in the war, as they emerged from the tunnel.
Toys were also collected for refugee children and a moment of silence held to honour those killed in the conflict.
Shakhtar Donetsk played their first match since the Russia-Ukraine conflict started in February
Tiquinho netted the only goal of the game as Olympiacos secured a 1-0 victory on Saturday
Brazilian forward Tiquinho got the only goal in the 22nd minute, but sporting director Christian Karembeu and Shakhtar counterpart Sergei Palkin underlined that the result was of secondary importance.
‘We are proud to host this event to raise awareness of…
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Source : dailymail
