Viktoria and her teammates have had a relentless journey at the Special Olympics Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026, scoring goal after goal, fiercely progressing over the past week with a hard-fought 2–0 victory over SO Egypt, before proving too strong for both SO Canada (6–0) and SO Hong Kong (6–0).
"Football has really become a place where I can challenge myself and build connections with others while learning what I am capable of achieving. I love my role of defender, but I also play wherever the team needs me.
Viktoria’s role requires her to anticipate danger and stay composed under pressure—skills that are just as important as technical ability. In order to intercept passes, she has to position herself crucially to cut off attacking opportunities, while blocking crosses and limiting ground for her opponents. Constant communication is essential—helping her teammates feel supported so that when that ball comes too close, they move together as one defensive unit.
"We're from all over Slovakia, but we've spent time building our relationship outside of our favourite sport. Even while we are here, we’ve spent the little free time that we do have playing games, chatting, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying the city's sights. When we have the opportunity to spend time together, we become closer and solidify being a team.
"The Tie-Breaker"
After losing out in the semi-final against SO Guatemala yesterday, Team Slovakia returned to the pitch for their bronze medal match against SO Thailand today, where both teams showcased sharp skills at Charlety Stadium before ending in a tie of 4–4 after full time. With the match decided by a penalty shootout, each team had the chance to take turns from the spot, where precision and a bit of luck decided the final result. Thailand eventually secured bronze with a 3–1 victory on penalties.
“We were all very sad after the match yesterday,” she says. “We were tearing up because we really wanted to win. But I am proud of our team because we left everything we had on the pitch. No matter what, I know I have a very strong support system behind me. My family, my friends, my teacher, my teammates and my coaches all support and inspire me. They believe in me.”
Head Coach Eva Jantakova shared more about Viktória’s development, reflecting on the progress she has witnessed over the past four years.
“Viktória has put not only her strength and heart into training, but she has also learned to think tactically and play as a true team player. She now communicates confidently on the pitch, guides her teammates, and isn’t afraid to ask for the ball when she’s in a goal-scoring position.
She has grown into a player who can apply everything she has learned and bring it all together in-game. Her positive attitude creates a wonderful atmosphere within the team, and everyone absolutely loves having her around.”
Leading With Heart
The 20-year-old defender from Čadca, Slovakia, has just completed her first international sporting event, having experienced football on a whole new level.
“I am very happy to be here with my team. We’ve met people from many countries, made new friends and enjoyed every match,” Viktoria says. “I started playing football with Special Olympics when I was 16, and it was a completely new experience for me. Football has given me a lot of confidence, and now it’s led me here.”
Away from football, Viktoria enjoys reading books, spending time with friends, swimming, running and cycling. She also looks up to Argentinian football legend Lionel Messi. “It’s Messi,” she laughs. “Of course!”
Her own advice to young athletes hoping to start playing football: “Believe in yourself. Work hard and never give up,” Viktoria shares. “Enjoy every training session, have fun and most of all – always play with your heart.”
Viktoria knew her team had a strong chance of a bronze medal finish after the way they performed throughout the tournament. “We never gave up,” she shares. “And despite our loss to SO Thailand today, we are also happy for them. We never stop celebrating the moments we do make. Most importantly, we always play as one team and for the love of the game. That’s been our secret.”
Tune in and catch all the celebratory moments as the Unified Football World Cup Paris 2026 wraps up with the Closing Ceremony this afternoon, 11 July at 14:00 CET. Catch every moment on the Veo Live App.
