It was a night to remember for Ukrainian football as recent results boosted the country’s standing in the UEFA Europa Conference League. Shakhtar Donetsk surged from 17th to 10th place in the overall rankings, collecting six points so far. They now sit level with Fiorentina and Crystal Palace, although both European sides boast a superior goal difference.

Meanwhile, Dynamo Kyiv finally found their attacking rhythm — a commanding victory over Zrinjski Mostar improved their goal difference significantly. However, the points tally still leaves them short of comfort: the Kyiv giants currently occupy 24th place, the last position within the playoff zone. Still, judging by last night’s performance, Dynamo’s prospects appear far brighter than before.

At the top of the standings, few would have predicted this trio of leaders. Samsunspor, Celje, and Mainz remain perfect, each with nine points and no dropped games. On the opposite end of the table, three clubs are yet to open their accounts — the expected strugglers Hamrun Spartans, as well as two surprising names: Slovan Bratislava and Rapid Vienna.