When he entered the game on Sunday, February 27, Ukrainian striker Roman Yaremchuk received thunderous applause. A powerful and moving gesture, in response to the violent conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Chills in the 60th minute of the Benfica / Guimarães match. Thirty minutes before the final whistle, Benfica Lisbon striker Darwin Nunez gave way to his teammate, Roman Yaremchuk. As soon as he stepped onto the pitch, the Ukrainian was accompanied by a magnificent ovation from the audience of the Portuguese stadium Estadio de la Luz.
Shouting, applause and signs in the colors of Ukraine. Faced with this lively tribute, Roman Yaremchuk could not contain his emotion. Overwhelmed by the beauty of this gesture while his country is at war, the footballer remained there, static, silent and with tears in his eyes for long seconds.
Watch (a video from Now Football Goals):
After the match (3-0 to Benfica Lisbon), Roman Yaremchuk shared these few words of thanks on his Instagram account:
“Dear and dear Benfica fans, team partners, staff, managers and just the people of Portugal, all of Ukraine says thank you for this support. This moment will be remembered by the Ukrainian people. Your applause is not for me. Your applause is for all the people and the soldiers who protect my family, my friends and all of Ukraine. †
Roman Yaremchuk
A beautiful statement of peace and support.