Opening-Round All-Star Team and Honor Roll Announced by UPL

Matchday One: All-Star Team and Individual Award Winners Announced

According to Українська Прем'єр-Ліга: The Ukrainian Premier League has revealed its official Team of the Round and individual award recipients for the opening matchday of the 2026/27 season. Francisco Fernandez of Karpaty was the unanimous choice for Coach of the Round after his side earned a commanding 4:1 away victory over Kryvbas. A panel of 31 experts-including TV hosts, commentators, and journalists from Ukrainian sports media-made the selection.

Shakhtar's Kauan Elias was named Player of the Round after scoring a hat-trick in his team's match against Kudrivka. These highlights demonstrate the high competitive level of Ukrainian football and the standout performances produced in the early part of the campaign. The UPL's official website lists all winners and participating experts.

A Fierce Championship Race Begins to Take Shape

The opening round points to a heated title fight and a clear improvement in the overall quality of play across the league. Recognizing coaches and players so early in the season can play a meaningful role in boosting their confidence and motivation in the matches ahead. With remarkable results such as Elias's hat-trick, the level of competition is likely to keep growing as the season moves forward.