Chornomorets Odesa secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over fellow Ukrainian side Niva Vinica in an International Club Friendly played on 18 July 2026. The match at the Chernomorets Stadium in Odesa provided a valuable run-out for both teams as they gear up for the upcoming season.

Match Overview

The Premier League side Chornomorets controlled the early proceedings, dominating possession and creating several half-chances. Their persistence paid off in the 23rd minute when experienced forward Yevgeny Shubin finished off a well-worked team move, turning home a cross from the right. Niva Vinica, playing in the second tier, grew into the contest after the break and levelled through a penalty converted by Andriy Kozak on 54 minutes. However, Chornomorets responded almost immediately, with Dmytro Pavlyuk heading home from a corner in the 61st minute to restore the lead, which they held until the final whistle.

Key Moments

• 23' Goal – Chornomorets Odesa: Shubin's instinctive finish from close range.
• 54' Goal – Niva Vinica: Kozak's spot-kick after a handball in the box.
• 61' Goal – Chornomorets Odesa: Pavlyuk's powerful header from a set piece.
• 88' Red card: Niva Vinica's captain Ihor Melnyk received a second yellow for a late tackle, leaving his side to finish with ten men.

Tactical Story

Chornomorets head coach Ihor "the Builder" Savchenko set his team up in a fluid 4-2-3-1, emphasising quick transitions through the wide areas. Niva Vinica sat deep and looked to counter, but their discipline cracked after conceding the second goal. The sending-off in the closing stages ended any hope of a late fightback. Chornomorets showed better fitness levels as the game wore on, a clear sign of their advanced preparation.

Standout Performers

Midfielder Oleksandr Tkachuk was the engine for Chornomorets, completing over 90% of his passes and breaking up play. For Niva Vinica, goalkeeper Serhiy Biletskyi made several fine saves to keep the score respectable. The match highlighted areas for both squads to improve, particularly Niva's defensive organisation from set pieces.

Season Context

This friendly forms part of a three-match pre-season tour for Chornomorets, who are aiming for a top-half finish in the Ukrainian Premier League. Niva Vinica will return to the lower division with renewed optimism after a spirited display against higher-level opposition.