FC Viktoria Plzeň kicked off their pre-season campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Ukrainian side Polissya Zhytomyr in an international club friendly on 14 July 2026. The match, played at their home stadium in Plzeň, served as an important test for both teams as they build toward the upcoming domestic seasons.

Match Overview

The Czech First League side controlled large portions of the game, showing sharpness despite it being only their second pre-season outing. Polissya Zhytomyr, who finished strongly in the Ukrainian Premier League last term, offered resistance but struggled to break down a well-organized Viktoria defence.

Key Moments

• 24' – Opening goal: A swift counter-attack saw Viktoria Plzeň’s midfielder Pavel Šulc release a perfectly weighted through ball to striker Tomáš Chorý, who slotted calmly past the visiting goalkeeper.
• 58' – Second goal: After persistent pressure, full-back Milan Havel delivered a dangerous cross that deflected off a Polissya defender and into the net, doubling the home side's lead.
• Polissya Zhytomyr’s best chance came in the 72nd minute when forward Artem Hordiienko forced a sharp save from Plzeň goalkeeper Martin Jedlička.

Tactical Story

Viktoria Plzeň manager Marián Zeman deployed a fluid 4-3-3 formation, focusing on quick transitions and pressing high up the pitch. The midfield trio of Lukáš Kalvach, Jan Kopic, and newcomer Prince Kwabena Adu dominated possession, while the full-backs pushed forward regularly to create overloads.

Polissya Zhytomyr, under coach Kostiantyn Vyshnevskyi, set up in a compact 4-4-2 looking to hit on the break. However, they struggled to maintain possession in the final third and were often forced into long-range efforts that failed to trouble the home goalkeeper.

Standout Players

• Tomáš Chorý (Viktoria Plzeň): The burly striker led the line effectively, scoring the opener and holding up play well to bring teammates into action.
• Milan Havel (Viktoria Plzeň): His tireless running down the right flank caused constant problems for Polissya’s left-back, and he was credited with the second goal via a deflected cross.
• Vladyslav Ostrovskyi (Polissya Zhytomyr): The central defender made several important interceptions and blocks, preventing an even heavier defeat.

Season Impact

For Viktoria Plzeň, this friendly represents a positive step in their preparations for the 2026–27 Czech First League season, where they aim to challenge for the title. Polissya Zhytomyr, meanwhile, will look to sharpen their attacking coordination before their Ukrainian Premier League campaign resumes. Both sides are expected to face tougher tests in their remaining pre-season fixtures.