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 took control from the opening moments, combining well and creating numerous opportunities. The opponent chose to play defensively, saturating their defensive line and frequently resorting to fouls. Unfortunately, they were unable to capitalize on their game dominance and several set pieces.

In the middle of the first half, there was an exchange of sharp moments. First, Serdyuk shot just wide of 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, Sitnik's wards created several more opportunities, including Buhravtsov heading an accurate delivery just past the goalpost.

After the break, Ukraine maintained their game advantage. In the 71st minute, Serdyuk took advantage of a miscommunication between the opponent's defender and goalkeeper: he picked up the ball on the penalty spot line and with an accurate shot from a turn, sent it into an empty net – 1:1. Later in the match, Kvikviniya had a chance to secure victory but his strike from the center of the penalty area was saved by the goalkeeper. The final score was a draw at 1:1.

In another match in our group, Italy thrashed Estonia – 8:1. Ukraine's next game will be on October 4th against Estonia. To advance to the League A of the second round, they need to finish first or second in their quartet.

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

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

Goals: Kljevic (28) – Serdyuk (71).

Montenegro U-17: Kolchevich, Radomirovic, Uzunovski, Pekovic, Markovic, Sekulic (Nedic, 69), Dzukić (Peyovich, 78), Kljevic (Krunić, 87), Jokaj (c), Šekularac (Begović, 87), Vušurović (Kaushević, 69).

Coach: Radovan Kavaya.

Ukraine U-17: Stolyarenko, Smotrichnyy, Yablonsky (Hordeiev, 59), Panchishin, Plamynskyi, Shukalovych (c), Hamzik (Kozushko, 59), Buhravtsov (Dzurynec', 65), Rybak, Gura, Serdyuk (Kvikviniya, 79).

Coach: Oleksandr Sitnik.

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

Referee: Aleko Apchauri (Georgia).

Sep 30. Estonia. Tallinn. "Kalju Kesktsoon."

Oct 1, 2025

Italy — Estonia 8:1

Montenegro  — Ukraine 1:1

Tournament Table

Oct 4, 2025

Italy — Montenegro (Tallinn, 12:30)

Ukraine — Estonia (Rakvere, 15:30)

Oct 7, 2025

Ukraine — Italy (Tallinn, 15:30)

Estonia — Montenegro (Rakvere, 15:30)