Goals Galore as Kolos Kovalivka U21 and Lokomotiv Kyiv Share Six Goals in Pre‑Season Clash

Date: July 10, 2026 | Competition: International Club Friendly

An entertaining pre‑season friendly in Ukraine saw Kolos Kovalivka’s Under-21 side and Lokomotiv Kyiv play out a pulsating 3‑3 draw. With both teams treating the match as a key part of their summer preparations, attacking football was the order of the day, and the fans were treated to a six‑goal thriller that could easily have produced even more.

Fast Start for the Hosts

Kolos Kovalivka U21 began with energy and purpose. Their youthful squad pressed high from the first whistle, and they were rewarded in the 12th minute when a swift counter‑attack ended with a composed finish from their central striker. The goal seemed to settle the hosts, but Lokomotiv Kyiv responded almost immediately. A speculative shot from distance took a deflection and looped over the Kolos goalkeeper, bringing the scores level after just 20 minutes.

The first half continued at a frantic pace. Kolos regained the lead through a well‑executed set piece: a free kick from the left flank was headed powerfully into the net by a defender who had ventured forward. However, Lokomotiv Kyiv struck again before halftime, capitalising on a defensive lapse to make it 2‑2 going into the interval.

Second‑Half Fireworks

The second half saw no let‑up in intensity. Kolos Kovalivka U21 pushed forward in search of a third goal, and they found it in the 58th minute. A clever through ball split the Lokomotiv defence, and the Kolos winger slotted home with confidence to make it 3‑2. The hosts looked in control, but Lokomotiv Kyiv refused to surrender.

With around 20 minutes remaining, a controversial penalty decision went against Kolos. A tackle inside the box was deemed reckless, and Lokomotiv’s designated taker stepped up to send the goalkeeper the wrong way, restoring parity at 3‑3. Both teams had chances to snatch a late winner, but fatigue and excellent goalkeeping kept the scoreline level until the final whistle.

Analysis and Implications

• Attacking promise: Both sides demonstrated creativity and finishing ability, suggesting they will be dangerous in the coming season.
• Defensive work needed: A total of six goals conceded indicates that defensive organisation and concentration remain areas for improvement.
• Valuable minutes for youngsters: The friendly offered an important opportunity for Kolos U21 players to test themselves against senior opposition (Lokomotiv Kyiv fielded a mix of first‑team and reserve players).

The 3‑3 draw provides a solid foundation for both teams to build upon. For Kolos Kovalivka U21, the performance against a more experienced outfit will boost morale, while Lokomotiv Kyiv will be pleased with their character in coming back twice to secure a result on the road.