In a home match of the ninth round of the Ukrainian Premier League, Kyiv's Obolon defeated Rivne's Veres 2-0. For the hosts, this encounter became a turning point in their league campaign: following the game, the team secured their first victory of the current UPL season. The match turned out to be uneven and rich in incidents — ranging from an early goal after a set-piece to a red card reviewed via VAR and an assist from their own goalkeeper.
First Goal After a Corner Kick Routine
The hosts took the lead in the 21st minute. Following a corner kick routine, Artem Kulakovskyi headed the ball into the net from close range to open the scoring. This goal determined the flow of the match for a long time, allowing the Kyiv team to play with more composure and impose their own rhythm on the opponent.
Injuries and Saves in the First Half
By the end of the first half, Veres suffered a forced loss: Taras Lyakh left the pitch due to an injury. After his substitution, the hosts had an opportunity to extend their lead, but visiting goalkeeper Valentyn Horokh saved his team, preventing the hosts from doubling the score before halftime. Thus, the Rivne side kept the intrigue alive for the second half.
VAR Overturns Decision: Red Card for Veres
In the 54th minute, the visitors were left a man down. Initially, the referee showed a yellow card to David Nije for a rough foul in midfield, but after reviewing the incident via the VAR system, the referee changed his decision and sent off the Rwandan player. Playing with ten men, Veres had to regroup and focus on defense.
Goalkeeper as an Assistant: Final Score
The Kyiv side sealed the final score in the 84th minute. Obolon goalkeeper Nazariy Fedorovskyi launched a goal kick, after which Ihor Medynskyi capitalized on the open opportunity and put the ball into the net. Thus, the hosts' goalkeeper recorded an assist, and his team brought the matter to what turned out to be a convincing victory. The result is 2-0 in favor of Obolon and the club's first win in the UPL season.
