President of the Ukrainian Football Association Andriy Shevchenko participated in the prestigious football forum Argentina Olé Summit, which gathered nearly five thousand participants, including leading representatives of the global football industry. Among the speakers was also President of the Argentine Football Association Claudio Tapia.

Andriy Shevchenko highlighted, among other things, the success of Ukraine's national team in a challenging qualification for the 2026 World Cup: "The European qualifier remains one of the toughest in the world. Despite this, Ukraine’s national team successfully passed the group stage and advanced to the playoffs. The team demonstrated stability and professionalism, even considering the complex logistical conditions, long travel distances, and limited fan support at stadiums. We are proud of what we have already achieved and continue moving forward."

Next, Andriy Shevchenko outlined the key challenges that Ukrainian football faces during the full-scale war period: constant air raid alerts, lack of spectators at stadiums, severe destruction of sports infrastructure, complex logistics, and financial difficulties. 

"Despite all the challenges, Ukrainian football continues to work and develop. All championships are ongoing. The national cup has been reformed with the aim of expanding club and regional participation. Mass football is developing: this year over ten thousand children participated in the 'School Ball' tournament. Football also serves as a tool for physical and psychological rehabilitation, especially for military personnel and civilians who have undergone amputations. That's why we created the 'Legs League' and are working on its development," — noted Andriy Shevchenko.

At the end of his speech, Andriy Shevchenko announced that in a conversation with Claudio Tapia he invited Argentina's national team to play a friendly match against Ukraine after the war ends. Mr. Tapia, in turn, accepted the invitation and assured that all proceeds from this game will be directed towards supporting Ukraine.