LNZ Cherkasy, once a football backwater, prepares for its European debut amidst the turmoil of war. The team, which recently climbed from fourth-tier football to the Ukrainian top flight, is set to face Gent in the Conference League qualifiers, marking a significant milestone for the club.

Mark Assinor, the striker, reflects on the team's transformation, stating, “We are making history.” This sentiment resonates throughout the club, which finished as runners-up in the 2025-26 season despite being underdogs. The club’s rapid rise is a testament to the ambitious vision of Vasyl Kayuk, the youngest chief executive in Ukrainian top-flight history, who emphasizes the importance of youth and belief in their potential.

LNZ’s journey has been fueled by strategic investments from their owners, a local agribusiness, aiming to build a sustainable future. Kayuk highlights their long-term approach, saying, “We always say that we are not sprinters, we are marathon runners.” The club has already exceeded expectations, recording a stunning 4-1 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk last October.

Manager Vitaliy Ponomaryov brings a winning mentality to the team, urging players to focus on future goals despite their current success. The club's resilience is further reflected in their community involvement, with staff providing support to war-affected individuals and nurturing young talent from occupied regions.

Despite challenges, LNZ's training facility is a beacon of hope, with plans for expansion and a burgeoning fan base. The club aims to foster a vibrant football culture in Cherkasy, making it synonymous with the sport in Ukraine. As they prepare to host Gent, LNZ hopes to showcase their emerging strength on the European stage.