The film tells the story of how local residents of Sumy oblast of Ukraine have lived and coped throughout the years of war. How have they endured and continue to endure life near the frontline, constant rocket attacks and bombings, the influx of military personnel, and waves of wounded soldiers? How do they support the Armed Forces and each other? What vision do they hold for their future?

A sweeping canvas of events that are pivotal for our nation unfolds on the screen through the stories of various people—community leaders, doctors, retirees, museum workers, and ordinary residents of frontline villages, towns, and cities. These stories exemplify the resilience of Ukrainians in the face of aggression, showcasing mutual aid and compassion for one another — stories of Ukrainian unity.

As the new football season approaches amidst the shadow of a nuclear threat, a professional Ukrainian soccer team faces a controversial choice: trading their shin guards for machine guns. With the war escalating, the team practices for a season that may never come and waits anxiously for a battle that almost certainly will. 

Captains of Ukraine explores the difficult nether world inhabited by athletes who must become soldiers.