Wikipedia - Extra-Liga

The Extra-Liga (Ukrainian: Екстра-ліга) is an association of futsal clubs of Ukraine and the top men's futsal league in the country. It is organized by the Association of Mini-Football of Ukraine which is a collective member of the Ukrainian Association of Football (formerly Football Federation of Ukraine). The Ukrainian Association of Mini-Football is not part of the Olympic movement, but is a collective members of the Ukrainian Association of Football.

History

In early 1990s futsal competitions along with other alternative types of association football such as beach football, football among women, others started to gain wider popularity worldwide and since 1996 there appeared continental competitions among European futsal clubs under auspices of UEFA.

The original Ukrainian championship among futsal clubs was founded in 1993 as a descendant of the general futsal movement among students in the Soviet Union. Prior to this, the Ukrainian teams played in the Soviet competitions that has been developing in late 1980s. The first Soviet competitions in 1990 and 1991 were conducted primarily in Ukraine. Among notable Ukrainian clubs of the Soviet period were Mekhanizator from Dnipropetrovsk, Syntez from Kremenchuk and others.

Following dissolution of the Soviet Union, the official Ukrainian competitions were reorganized after some pause in late 1993 as the Top League.

In 2011 a new Ukrainian futsal super league was formed, Extra-Liga, beginning in the 2011–12 season. Previously, the 8 highest finishing teams in the league advanced into the playoffs. The winner of the Championship playoffs gained qualification for the UEFA Futsal Cup.

Some regular association football clubs of Ukraine are fielding also their futsal squads, including both male and female.[] Other futsal clubs exist independently, while some such as MFC Interkas Kyiv originally competed in amateur competitions of association football before switching to futsal (indoor). Among notable footballers who competed in competitions of association football and later switched to futsal competitions is Stanislav Honcharenko.

The "Ukraine Extra Liga" is a highly anticipated futsal tournament held annually in Ukraine. It showcases the best futsal teams from across the country, providing an exciting platform for players to display their skills and compete for the prestigious title.

The tournament features a thrilling format, with teams battling it out in intense matches played on indoor courts. The fast-paced nature of futsal, combined with the technical abilities of the players, creates a captivating spectacle for both fans and enthusiasts of the sport.

The Ukraine Extra Liga attracts a wide range of talented teams, including those from major cities like Kyiv, Lviv, Kharkiv, and Odessa, as well as smaller towns and regions. This diversity adds an element of unpredictability to the competition, as underdog teams often rise to the occasion and challenge the established powerhouses.

The tournament is known for its high level of competitiveness, with teams employing strategic gameplay, quick passes, and skillful dribbling to outwit their opponents. The matches are filled with thrilling goals, acrobatic saves, and intense rivalries, creating an electric atmosphere for spectators.

The Ukraine Extra Liga also serves as a platform for young talents to showcase their potential and catch the attention of scouts and national team selectors. Many players who have participated in this tournament have gone on to represent Ukraine at international futsal competitions, further highlighting the significance of this event.

In addition to the on-field action, the tournament also promotes a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among the participating teams. It provides an opportunity for players, coaches, and fans to come together and celebrate their shared passion for futsal.

Overall, the Ukraine Extra Liga is a premier futsal tournament that showcases the best of Ukrainian talent and offers an exhilarating experience for both players and spectators. With its thrilling matches, intense rivalries, and the promise of discovering future stars, this tournament is a must-watch for futsal enthusiasts in Ukraine and beyond.