Dynamo Kyiv Plays in Poland Due to Ongoing Conflict

Lublin, Poland – Crystal Palace faces Dynamo Kyiv on Thursday night in their debut match in the UEFA Conference League. Due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, this game will be held at the Motor Lublin Arena in Poland.

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, UEFA required Ukrainian teams to play their matches at neutral sites. Dynamo Kyiv, a 17-time Ukrainian champion, has been playing its European home fixtures in Poland since the beginning of the war.

The Motor Lublin Arena, which can seat 15,247 spectators, has hosted Dynamo’s European matches since the conflict began. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s national team also plays in Poland, often at the Tarczynski Arena in Wroclaw.

Although Ukrainian clubs continue to host league matches in their homeland, match attendance has dropped significantly. Prior to the pandemic, average crowds were much higher. Despite this, Dynamo Kyiv will play their remaining home games in the Conference League at the Lublin venue.

Crystal Palace’s matchup against Dynamo represents a significant moment as the club makes its historical entry into European competition. Following UEFA regulations, both teams had to approve the venue for the match.