Oleksandr Svatok reflects on Ukraine amidst MLS success with Austin FC

Oleksandr Svatok, a defender for Austin FC, continues to excel in MLS while remaining deeply affected by the ongoing war in Ukraine. Svatok, who hails from Kamianske, has family near conflict zones and has found a sense of community in Austin despite cultural differences. He has started in 51 of 58 appearances since joining the team and cites soccer as a unifying element in his adaptation. Austin FC is set to face Nashville SC on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. at Q2 Stadium, a match that will feature Svatok among the key players for the home team.

• 11:00 AMYahoo Sports — As Austin FC's Oleksandr Svatok excels in MLS, the war in Ukraine is always on his mind