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Dinamo Zagreb Fans Lead Joint 'Slava Ukraini' Chant with Lithuanian Supporters

Dinamo Zagreb Fans Lead Joint 'Slava Ukraini' Chant with Lithuanian Supporters

From Večernji List · () Croatian

Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Dinamo Zagreb football fans, the Bad Blue Boys, chanted "Slava Ukraini" (Glory to Ukraine) during a match against Kauno Žalgiris in Lithuania.
  • Home fans, the Green and White Boys, joined the chant, responding "Ukraini" to the "Slava" call.
  • The joint demonstration of support for Ukraine occurred during a Europa League qualifying match, highlighting Lithuania's strong support for Ukraine and the Bad Blue Boys' relationship with Ukrainian fan groups.

During a Europa League qualifying match in Kaunas, Lithuania, football fans from both Dinamo Zagreb and the local team Kauno Žalgiris united in a display of solidarity with Ukraine. Dinamo Zagreb's supporters, known as the Bad Blue Boys, initiated a chant of "Slava Ukraini" (Glory to Ukraine).

Shortly after, the home crowd, the Green and White Boys, joined the demonstration, responding "Ukraini" to the "Slava" call. This coordinated display of support took place during the second leg of the third qualifying round, where Dinamo Zagreb ultimately defeated Kauno Žalgiris 2-1, advancing with a 7-1 aggregate score.

The joint chant underscored Lithuania's significant support for Ukraine since the start of the Russian aggression, including hosting a large number of Ukrainian refugees. The Bad Blue Boys also maintain strong ties with fan groups of Dynamo Kyiv, their namesake. This act of solidarity on the terraces reflected broader political and humanitarian support for Ukraine.

The match itself saw Dinamo Zagreb secure their progression to the next round of the Champions League qualifiers, where they are set to face Norwegian champions Viking. However, the notable moment off the pitch highlighted the powerful role sports can play in expressing political and social solidarity.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Večernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.