Polish Lech Poznań Ultras Chant About UPA and Bandera During Heavy Loss to Shakhtar Donetsk.

Conference League Round of 16 Match

According to Novyny.live: Shakhtar Donetsk defeated Poland's Lech Poznań 3-1 in the UEFA Europa Conference League round of 16. The Ukrainian side took a 1-0 lead in the first half, setting the stage for their commanding win.

During the match, Lech's ultra fans were heard chanting vulgar slogans referencing the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) and Stepan Bandera. These offensive chants sparked concern among supporters and officials from both clubs.

Fan Culture Under Scrutiny

Beyond the athletic contest, the game highlighted ongoing issues with fan conduct and stadium behavior. Such incidents underscore the need for stricter oversight of spectators at sporting events, as they can damage the reputation of clubs and the sport as a whole.

Given the historical tensions between Ukraine and Poland, these actions risk inflaming existing sensitivities and shaping how Ukrainian teams are perceived abroad. The episode serves as a reminder of how sports can become entangled with broader political and cultural conflicts.