GLASGOW, Scotland — When Russia invaded Ukraine, and his hometown of Kyiv came under attack, Oleksandr Petrakov went to volunteer for the Ukrainian Territorial Defense Force. At 64 years old and with no military experience, Petrakov once said of his decision: “I could take two or three enemies out.” Although he was turned away, he left with a mission: Bring glory to Ukraine, qualify for the World Cup.
On Wednesday in Glasgow, nearly 2,000 miles away from Kyiv, Petrakov fulfilled at least part of the task. Ukraine was basking in glory, and it is now one game away from an improbable trip to Qatar after a 3–1 win over Scotland in the World Cup qualifying playoff semifinal.