Former Kerala Blasters star Ivan Kaliuzhnyi made a memorable debut for Ukraine, earning the Man of the Match award in a UEFA Nations League clash. The midfielder, who gained prominence during his stint in the Indian Super League, delivered a standout performance on the international stage, showcasing his skill and composure in midfield.
However, Ukraine’s defensive vulnerabilities continued to be their downfall. Despite taking an early lead against Albania, they conceded two unanswered goals, suffering a 2-1 defeat. The defensive issues persisted in a 3-2 thriller against Czechia in Prague, where Ukraine’s backline again struggled, costing them the match.
Ivan Kaliuzhnyi’s impressive individual display provided a bright spot amid Ukraine’s disappointing results. Kerala Blasters fans, known as Manjappada, celebrated his success on social media, proudly declaring, “Once a Blaster, always a Blaster!” His rise from Kochi to the international stage remains a source of pride for the club and its supporters.
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