Today, October 1st, Ukraine's youth team started their campaign in the first round of qualification for the UEFA European Championship-2026 (U-17) with a match against Montenegro.

The blue and yellow team seized control from the opening minutes, combining well and creating numerous opportunities. The opponent chose to play defensively, saturating their defensive line and frequently committing minor fouls. Unfortunately, they were unable to capitalize on their game advantage or numerous set pieces.

In the middle of the first half, there was an exchange of sharp moments. First, Serdyuk shot just past the far post, but in response, Montenegro executed a quick combination play that Kljevic finished with a precise strike from about 17 meters out.

Before halftime, the players under Oleksandr Sitnik created several more chances. Specifically, Buhravtsov took an aimed header after a cross, but the ball once again flew just past the goalpost.

After halftime, Ukraine maintained their game advantage. On the 71st minute, Serdyuk capitalized on the confusion between an opponent defender and goalkeeper: he picked up the ball on the penalty spot line and with a precise strike from a spin move sent it into the empty net — 1:1. In the remaining time, Kvikvinia had a great chance to secure victory but his shot from central position in the penalty area was saved by the goalkeeper. The final score was a draw at 1:1.

In another match of our group, Italy routed Estonia — 8:1. Next up for Oleksandr Sitnik's team is a match against Estonia on October 4th. To advance to the League A second round, they need to secure first or second place in their quartet.

UEFA European Championship-2026 (U-17). First Qualification Round. Group 1

Montenegro (U-17) — Ukraine (U-17) — 1:1 (1:0)

Goals: Kljevic (28) — Serdyuk (71).

Montenegro U-17: Kolchevich, Radomirovich, Uzunovskiy, Pekovic, Markovic, Sekulic (Nedich, 69), Dzukic (Peyovich, 78), Kljevic (Krunich, 87), Jokaj (c), Sekularac (Begovic, 87), Vushurovich (Kaushевич, 69).

Coach: Radovan Kavaya.

Ukraine U-17: Stolyarenko, Smotrichnyy, Yablonsky (Hordeyev, 59), Panchishin, Plyaminskiy, Shukalovych (c), Hamzik (Kozushko, 59), Buhravtsov (Dzyurynets, 65), Rybak, Gura, Serdyuk (Kvikvinia, 79).

Coach: Oleksandr Sitnik.

Yellow cards: Radomirovich (15), Markovic (41).

Referee: Aleko Apciauri (Georgia).

September 30. Estonia. Tallinn. "Kalju Keskstaadion".

October 1, 2025

Italy — Estonia 8:1

Montenegro — Ukraine 1:1

Tournament Table

October 4, 2025

Italy — Montenegro (Tallinn, 12:30)

Ukraine — Estonia (Rakvere, 15:30)

October 7, 2025

Ukraine — Italy (Tallinn, 15:30)

Estonia — Montenegro (Rakvere, 15:30)