‘We are alive’: Exiled Shakhtar chasing European glory as Palace await in semi-final
In an atmosphere filled with both hope and bittersweet nostalgia, Shakhtar Donetsk, under the leadership of CEO Serhey Palkin, prepares to embark on another chapter of their poignant story. For nearly a decade, their home ground, the Donbas Arena, has remained silent due to the devastation wrought by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine—an enduring impact of Russia’s annexation of Crimea and subsequent invasions, casting Shakhtar into a life of perpetual displacement.
Since 2014, the club, renowned as Ukraine’s most successful team of the 21st century, has been deprived of its true home, marking 12 years of exile. Nevertheless, they are poised to carve out new memories, facing Crystal Palace from the Premier League this Thursday in a fiercely contested semi-final for a place in the UEFA Conference League final.
True to their unique circumstances, Shakhtar will once again play their so-called ‘home game’ on foreign turf. The Synerise Arena in Krakow, Poland, is set to host this pivotal matchup, where Palkin anticipates a turnout of 26,000 passionate supporters, many of whom will travel from distant corners of Europe to rally behind a team that has come to symbolize resilience and the enduring fight for freedom amidst national adversity.
In a recent virtual media session, Palkin highlighted the significance of such gatherings for Ukrainian fans who have been forced to remain abroad, stating, “Almost 90% of the supporters are our Ukrainian people, and I’m sure they arrive not just from Poland. For them, it’s not just a match; it’s a vital link to their homeland, one that allows them to feel emotionally connected to the team and their country.” This emotional depth is crucial for those unable to witness the matches live, representing an invaluable connection during tumultuous times.
As Shakhtar navigates their tumultuous journey of playing away from home, they have braced themselves for the physical and mental toll it exacts. Currently, the team has played an exhausting 45 matches across all competitions, beginning their season in early July with a dominating 6-0 victory against Finnish team Ilves in the first round of the Europa League qualifiers. Issues such as lengthy travel from their base in Lviv to Krakow have only compounded their challenges. Palkin recounted an enlightening exchange with the president of Lech Poznan, who described a mere 45-minute commute to their own matches. In stark contrast, Shakhtar faced an arduous 18-hour journey, leading Palkin to reflect on the mental fatigue that compounds their competitive disadvantage.
The emotional toll and logistical struggles only amplify the stakes as Shakhtar prepares to face Crystal Palace. Darijo Srna, a club legend and current director of football, emphasizes the spirit that has fueled their perseverance. Reflecting on his storied connection with the club, he recalled their victorious UEFA Cup run in 2009, asserting that “Ukrainian football is alive,” a sentiment that resonates deeply in these challenging times for their homeland.
With a resurgence of Brazilian talent revitalizing the squad—14 players from Brazil have recently joined the ranks—Shakhtar is beginning to witness the rehabilitation of their celebrated recruitment model. Players such as Eguinaldo, who is the league’s top scorer with seven goals, and Alisson, who made a significant impact with a brace against AZ in the quarter-finals, signal a promising new direction for the club. Palkin expressed a renewed trust from Brazilian players, noting that Shakhtar provides them with a pivotal platform for development and opportunities in European leagues.
As they set their sights on the semi-final against a formidable Crystal Palace, Shakhtar aims to channel the fighting spirit that has seen them through adversity. Despite the challenges and odds stacked against them, both Palkin and Srna echo a steadfast belief in their ability to compete at the highest level, fostering hope not only for their club but also for all those who stand alongside them in Ukraine. A victory could serve as a significant beacon of hope amidst the shadows of conflict, proving that inclusivity and tenacity can flourish even in the face of severe adversity.
