Artem Stepanov's Dream Debut for Ukraine in Doubt After Injury

Artem Stepanov’s season flipped in an instant at De Kuip. One awkward twist, one grimace, and Feyenoord v FC Utrecht turned into a nightmare for the in-form striker.

Half an hour into the match, in a duel with Feyenoord defender Givairo Read, Stepanov landed badly. He twisted awkwardly, immediately clutching himself in pain. The reaction told its own story. This was not a knock he could run off.

The tall Utrecht forward sank to the turf and broke down in tears. Medical staff rushed on, tried to treat him, tried to give him a chance to continue. Nothing worked. He stayed emotional throughout, fully aware of what this might mean.

Eventually, there was no choice. Stepanov came off, replaced by Anthony Correia, his face still wet with tears as he left the pitch at De Kuip.

The timing could hardly be worse. Utrecht have struggled badly at the start of the season, but Stepanov has been the bright, sharp edge of their attack. He scored in each of his first five league matches, a blistering run that put his name alongside Rafael van der Vaart, matching the Dutchman’s milestone from 2001.

That form forced open the international door. His goals earned him a call-up to the Ukraine national team, with the Nations League group stage about to begin and Hungary up first on Friday. After years in the youth ranks, it was finally within reach: a senior debut for his country.

Now everything hangs in the balance.

The early signs at De Kuip suggested a serious problem, and it is doubtful whether he will be ready in time to report for national duty. Ukraine’s coaches will wait for news; so will Utrecht, who can ill afford to lose their one consistent scorer.

Stepanov has worn Ukraine’s colours at various youth levels. He has never stepped onto the pitch for the senior side.

That chance was supposed to come this week. Now the question is simple and brutal: will his body let him take it?