A minivan with darkened windows arrives at a gym in central Chernihiv, where Artem Rakitin gathers a group of young men for a final pep talk before the Ukrainian Cup final. Rakitin, a mentor to these youths, emphasizes discipline and channeling their energy positively, especially in the face of adversity.

On Wednesday evening, FC Chernihiv will face Dynamo Kyiv in a cup final that seemed impossible just months ago. Despite battling relegation, they triumphed over Metalist 1925 Kharkiv in a dramatic semi-final that went to penalties, even after losing a player early on. This match represents not just a sporting event, but a beacon of hope for a city scarred by conflict since the Russian invasion began in February 2022.

Rakitin, a former special forces officer known as "Rocket," played a crucial role in evacuating civilians during the siege of Chernihiv. His dedication to the city and its football club shines through as he acknowledges the significance of this final, especially given the impact of war on local sports.

Earlier this season, Rakitin rallied a new group of supporters from the youths he trains, reigniting passion for local football. With FC Chernihiv’s facilities having suffered damage during the conflict, their journey back to prominence is a testament to resilience.

The club’s youth academy provides a crucial outlet for about 500 children, many of whom have lost parents to the war. Coaches like Ihor Bobovych stress the importance of football in keeping these youngsters engaged and hopeful amid chaos.

As FC Chernihiv prepares for the cup final, they carry with them the dreams of a city. With a budget of just £560,000, they represent the underdog spirit, ready to face the giants. Around 900 fans will travel to Arena Lviv, where Rakitin and his team plan to display their city’s heritage with pride and determination, aiming to inspire even greater stories of resilience.