Rafael Louzán welcomes 42 Ukrainian refugee children in Elche

Smiles and excitement have filled Spain’s training sessions and matches over the past few days, as 42 Ukrainian boys and girls, accompanied by their coaches, have become familiar faces to Luis de la Fuente’s squad.

The initiative, promoted by RFEF President Rafael Louzán and his Ukrainian counterpart, the legendary striker Andriy Shevchenko, has brought this group of young athletes — many from Kherson and other cities deeply affected by the war — to experience an unforgettable journey through Spanish football.

Their activities have included watching Spain’s open training session at the Ciudad del Fútbol, taking part in joint school events with local children, visiting the Spain National Team Museum, and most memorably, participating in the pre-match ceremony before the game against Georgia at the Martínez Valero Stadium in Elche.

“We’re here in the stadium, in Spain, watching the national team play — it’s something wonderful and amazing,” said Anastasiia Lopashchuk, the group’s coordinator, who led the children’s activities during the matchday events.

Earlier, Rafael Louzán officially welcomed the group alongside Salvador Gomar, President of the Valencian Football Federation; Oleksandr Shevchenko, Vice President of the Ukrainian Association of Football; and Ihor Gryshchenko, its General Secretary.

With the invaluable support of the Valencian Football Federation, which is hosting and organising activities for the children during their stay, the group will also attend Spain’s Under-21 qualifier against Finland in Castellón on Tuesday — continuing to share their joy and spirit.

This inspiring visit is a moving reminder that football can be a powerful instrument for peace, hope, and unity, offering emotional support to those who need it most while bringing people together through the universal language of the game.