Livyi Bereh vs Chernihiv

The match swung entirely in a 120-second window between the 79th and 81st minutes. Having controlled the game without reward, Chernihiv's opener should have given them a platform. Instead, Livyi Bereh's response was instant and decisive. The character of the comeback — two goals in reply within two minutes — suggests a side that has developed resilience during their promotion-winning campaign.

Dmytro Shastal — The 30-year-old left winger scored the winner and was the most threatening attacking player for Livyi Bereh in the second half. He later told the club's press service: "Chernihiv is one of the most difficult opponents for us in pre-season. This is a very organised opponent that can cause problems for anyone."

Diego Andradina — The Brazilian midfielder's equaliser was the catalyst. Brought on at half-time, he provided the spark Livyi Bereh's attack had lacked in the first period.

Oleksandr Riabokon (manager) — Livyi Bereh's head coach rotated his entire XI at the break and saw his second-half gamble pay off. He noted afterwards that he identified "three or four players ready to compete for a starting spot in official matches."

The scoreline (2-1) flatters the spectacle for 78 minutes. All three goals arrived after the 75th minute, which is typical of disjointed pre-season friendlies where fitness takes priority over structure. The 0-0 half-time score underlines a controlled first half where neither side took risks. Livyi Bereh's ability to flip the game in 120 seconds is the standout data point — not possession or shot counts, but the speed of their response under minimal preparation.

This was Livyi Bereh's third pre-season friendly as they prepare for their debut Ukrainian Premier League campaign after winning promotion via the playoffs against Oleksandriia (1-1, 1-0) in June 2026. They finished 3rd in the First League last season with 63 points from 30 matches.

Riabokon's side have further friendlies scheduled: against Obolon on 21 July and Kryvbas on 25 July. Their UPL campaign begins on 2 August with an away fixture against Dynamo Kyiv (kick-off 18:00 local time).

Chernihiv, who competed in the First League last season, continue their own pre-season build-up.

A typical pre-season friendly decided by a late three-minute burst. Livyi Bereh's comeback character — and the depth shown by their second-half XI — will encourage Riabokon ahead of their step up to the UPL. The result itself matters little; the fight does.