Ukraine U-19 Crushes Croatia in Euro 2026 Opener

Junior National Team’s Dominant Victory

According to Главком: Ukraine’s U-19 football squad kicked off their 2026 European Championship campaign with a commanding 3-1 win over Croatia in the first round of group play. The match, held at a local stadium, saw the Ukrainian side take control of Group B after a confident performance that left them atop the standings. This tournament marks a key milestone for the team as they aim to build on their recent development programs.

The game’s early moments saw Croatia’s Ivan Barić strike first, netting a goal in the 22nd minute. However, Ukraine responded swiftly-just four minutes later, Dmytro Bohdanov leveled the score at 1-1, capitalizing on a corner kick delivery from Pavlo Lyusin. The momentum shifted further in Ukraine’s favor when Nikita Kalyuzhnyi scored in the 46th minute, slotting home a rebound. Pavlo Lyusin sealed the victory in the 57th minute with a precise shot into the top corner, making it 3-1 and putting the game beyond Croatia’s reach.

Looking Ahead to Upcoming Fixtures

Head coach Dmytro Mykhailenko is now focusing on the next challenge, as Ukraine prepares to face Serbia on Thursday, July 2, at 8:00 PM. In another Group B match, Italy defeated Serbia 2-0, highlighting the fierce competition within the group. This victory not only boosts Ukraine’s confidence but also sets the stage for a critical encounter against Serbia, who are also seeking their first points after a loss. The outcome of this next game will be pivotal for both teams in their quest to advance to the tournament’s knockout stages.

As Ukraine's U-19 team aims for further success in the tournament, their ambitions are clear. The players are not only looking to secure points in the upcoming match against Serbia but also to make a significant impact on the European stage. To understand the team's ultimate goals and their journey in the championship, check out how they are striving for the highest honors at Euro 2026 here.