Another defender of Ukraine has fallen on the front lines – Dmytro Bohachov, former captain of the professional football club “Sumy” and player for Ukraine’s U-21 national football team. On August 25, he celebrated his final birthday, marking his 32nd year.
Dmytro fought in the Donetsk region, particularly holding off fierce Russian assaults near the Avdiivka coke plant. He served as a combat medic, saving the lives of his wounded comrades.
Dmytro Bohachov was the third and youngest son in his family. From a young age, he developed a passion for football, playing in the yard and later moving on to futsal and joining the first children’s team in Sumy, “Kolosok.” Over several years, he became a champion and medalist at Ukrainian championships, eventually training at the Specialized Children’s and Youth Olympic Reserve School “Zmina.” The talented young player was noticed and invited to join PFK “Sumy,” where he became the youngest team captain. He played 10 seasons, with over 200 matches and nearly 30 goals. Later, he played for amateur teams in the region and the Polish club “Orleta.” Dmytro also played one match for Ukraine’s U-21 national team.
The news of Dmytro Bohachov’s death shocked the football community in Sumy and across the country. One of the coaches of the “Kolosok” children’s team remembers him: “Dmytro was a leader, setting an example for his peers. He was the first captain of the U-15 youth national team of Ukraine. In our team, everyone kept diaries, recording their thoughts and impressions—everything that made an impression on them. Dmytro’s entry, which brings tears to the eyes, reads: ‘I love my mom very much. She is the best in the world!’ Sadly, his mother will never be able to embrace her son again…
Eternal glory and honor to the Hero!