2025/26 Ukrainian Premier League Season Wrap-Up
Ruslan Babenko, the captain of Zhytomyr-based Polissya, has shared his thoughts on the team’s bronze-medal finish in the 2025/26 Ukrainian Premier League season. This achievement marks the club’s first-ever top-three finish in just their third season in the top flight. According to Babenko, the season got off to a rocky start—after five matchdays, a podium finish seemed unlikely. However, the squad showed resilience and fought their way back into medal contention.
The captain also noted that the closing stretch was tough, as opponents gave everything they had:
“You saw how hard Rukh fought today. I’m happy with the bronze, but next season we need to take another step forward.” - Ruslan Babenko
Polissya’s best previous result was a fourth-place finish last year. In the 2025/26 campaign, Cherkasy-based LNZ claimed the silver medals after a narrow 1-0 victory over Kyiv’s Obolon in the final round. The only goal of that match—which secured silver for LNZ—was scored by midfielder Mykytyshyn.
Other Teams’ Successes
Additionally, Kyiv’s Dynamo defeated Chernihiv in the 2025/26 Ukrainian Cup final. Dynamo midfielder Buyalskyi netted a brace, while winger Yarmolenko added the third goal. As a result, the 2025/26 season proved to be a landmark one for Ukrainian clubs, with Polissya earning their first-ever silverware.
Polissya’s performance this season highlights the team’s growing presence in Ukrainian football and underscores their potential for future success. LNZ’s silver-medal triumph and Dynamo’s Cup victory point to increasing competitiveness in the Premier League, which could shape the dynamics of upcoming seasons. Clubs like Polissya continue to raise the bar, inspiring young footballers to reach new heights in Ukrainian football.
As the season concludes, it's essential to recognize the broader implications of Polissya's achievement. Their impressive historic bronze medal not only marks a significant milestone for the club but also reflects the increasing competitiveness within the league. This season has showcased the rise of clubs like LNZ and Dynamo, setting the stage for an exciting future in Ukrainian football.