Poland, Czech Republic, and Sweden said they are refusing to play FIFA World Cup 2022 European Qualifiers playoff matches in Russia after it attacked Ukraine on Thursday.
Russia is set to host Poland at the Dinamo Lev Yashin Stadium(VTB Arena) in Moscow on March 24, while Sweden takes on the Czech Republic. If both Russia and Sweden win, the two sides would meet on March 29 in Russia at the Dinamo Lev Yashin Stadium(VTB Arena) with a spot in Qatar on the line.
“Based on the latest Russian aggression against Ukraine, “the signatories to this appeal do not consider travelling to Russia and playing football matches there,” the three countries said in a joint statement addressed to FIFA’s General Secretary Fatma Samoura.
“The military escalation that we are observing entails serious consequences and considerably lower safety for our national football teams and official delegations.”
In addition, The three teams said they expect an “immediate response” from FIFA and UEFA, and for the organizations to find “alternative solutions” for the upcoming matches.
Credit Photo : Global Look Press