In an iconic Champions League upset, Sheriff Tiraspol beat Real Madrid at the Bernabeu. Managed by Yuriy Vernydub the Transnistria based club won by two goals to one. After scoring in the eighty-nineth minute to secure a victory. Doing so, having progressed through four qualifying rounds to reach the group stage. All on a budget of just five million pounds a year. Unfortunately, the Moldovan league club finished third in their group. Leaving them with an exit to the Europa league, where they faced Braga. Heading to the Portuguese side with a two-nil lead from the previous fixture.
However, on the morning of the match day things dramatically changed for the club. Following a call from his son Yuriy Vernydub decided he will be leaving football to fight in the war. After power obsessed Putin launched an invasion, sparking the start of an international crisis. Friday evening saw the heroic boss set of on an eleven-hour journey from his home to the Ukraine. Enrolling in the army when he reached on Saturday morning, having travelled through a range of cities to get there. Stating what he has done is not difficult.
In a recent interview Yuriy Vernydub explained he had previous military experience. When he was younger, he was part of the forces as two years of mandatory service was required by sports men. Where he learned theory for two months before being educated on how to handle weaponry. Leaving him well prepared for the situations he will be facing in the upcoming days and weeks. Furthermore, the Yellow-Blacks legend added his family tried to stop him joining the conflict. But Yuriy Vernydub was adamant on sticking to his decision.
Players and staff at his former club went on to provide full support. A handful of footballers from the side sent voice messages of encouragement, whilst coaching members sent positive words too. Going on to beat their rivals a few days after the manager departed. Keeping him motived, as he hoped the war would not last for long. Thinking of returning to the sport he loves. Claiming football is his life.
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