Yarmolenko Speaks Out Ahead of the Ukrainian Cup Final

Andriy Yarmolenko's Pre-Match Comments on the Ukrainian Cup Final

According to Главком: Andriy Yarmolenko, a midfielder for Kyiv's Dynamo, shared his thoughts before the Ukrainian Cup final, scheduled for May 20, 2026, at Arena Lviv in Lviv. The match kicks off at 6:00 PM, with his team facing Chernihiv. Dynamo advanced to the final by defeating Bukovyna from Chernivtsi in the semifinals, while Chernihiv secured their spot after a tense penalty shootout victory over Metalist 1925.

Reflecting on his feelings ahead of the crucial match, Yarmolenko stated:

“Yes, I feel it before every game. I think that's natural. You understand that you carry responsibility for the performance and the result-toward the team, the head coach, your family, and the fans. Nerves are normal. What matters most is that they disappear once the game starts.”

In the semifinal, Dynamo displayed a strong performance, with forward Ponomarenko scoring a brace and winger Voloshyn adding another goal to the team's tally. Chernihiv, meanwhile, overcame Metalist 1925 despite midfielder Shushko receiving a straight red card. Their victory came via a penalty shootout, where:

• Kaliuzhnyi opened the scoring with a shot down the middle;
• Shapoval, Antiukh, Shalfieiev, Baptistella, and Teplyakov converted their attempts;
• Arevalo and Porokhnia failed to find the net;
• Mba's effort was saved by Tatarenko.

Zenchenko emerged as the hero of the final, netting the decisive penalty for Chernihiv.

Yarmolenko also expressed sentimental feelings, reflecting on Chernihiv's journey in the Ukrainian Cup, which he supports. “My family often joked about this final as well. Regardless, winning the Cup is the main motivation. Moreover, we have many young players in our squad for whom this final will be a debut. Tomorrow, we must prove that we deserve the victory more. We understand how important this match is for our club. We are preparing with maximum responsibility. We will play in a way that brings the Cup back to Kyiv,” he emphasized.

Dynamo's Mindset Before the Final

Dynamo is approaching the match with full seriousness, as Andriy Yarmolenko noted: “We are extremely focused. We understand that a club like Dynamo cannot end the season without trophies. We need to win the Cup.”

The final promises to be intense and exciting, as both teams have high ambitions.

The Ukrainian Cup final between Dynamo and Chernihiv is set to be a significant event not only for the clubs but also for fans, given both teams' histories and traditions. Dynamo aims to showcase its strength and claim the trophy, while Chernihiv, despite being seen as underdogs, intends to put up a respectable fight. This matchup is expected to become a memorable moment in Ukrainian football, reflecting the strong aspirations of both sides.

As anticipation builds for the Ukrainian Cup final, fans are eager to learn more about the upcoming showdown. For a deeper insight into the match-up between Dynamo and Chernihiv, including key player highlights and team strategies, check out our detailed preview of the Ukrainian Cup Final.