Ukraine's National Football Team Loses Key Defender Before Albania Clash: Who Steps In for Krushynskyi.

Borys Krushynskyi Withdraws from Ukraine Squad

According to Novyny.live: Borys Krushynskyi, a defender for FC Polissya, has left the Ukrainian national team camp after picking up an injury ahead of a friendly match against Albania. The setback occurred before the team's game against Sweden, complicating his availability for upcoming fixtures. This development adds pressure on the squad as they prepare for their March 31 encounter.

Match Details and Injury Impact

Scheduled for March 31 at Valencia's Estadi Ciutat de València (home of Levante UD), the Albania match kicks off at 21:45 Kyiv time. Ukraine recently suffered a 1–3 defeat to Sweden in the 2026 World Cup playoff semifinals, making this friendly a crucial opportunity to regroup.

Krushynskyi's injury has prevented him from making his debut for the national team. During the 2025/26 season, he appeared in 18 matches for Polissya, recording three assists. With him unavailable, the coaching staff may turn to these alternatives:

• Vitaliy Mykolenko
• Bohdan Mykhaylichenko

Krushynskyi's absence could significantly alter the tactical plans of Ukraine's coaching staff. Player injuries always pose a challenge, especially before important matches like the one against Albania. Following the loss to Sweden, the team has a chance to reassess its strategies and strengthen its defense—a critical focus for upcoming games.