The Czech Republic has joined with Sweden and Poland in saying that they will to play against the Russian national football team following the nation’s invasion of Ukraine.
The three teams have been drawn in the same qualifying play-off round for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The Czech football authorities said in a statement:
"The Czech FA executive committee, staff members and players of the national team agreed it's not possible to play against the Russian national team in the current situation, not even on the neutral venue. We all want the war to end as soon as possible."
Since the outbreak of the invasion sporting bodies across the world have moved to remove Russian athletes and teams, with most recently, all Russian athletes being removed from the Paralympics in Beijing.
Speaking on the issue, Polish goalkeeperWojciech Szczesny said:
"I refuse to play against players who choose to represent the values and principles of Russia. I refuse to take part in an event that legitimates the actions of the Russian government."
While the world governing body FIFA added their condemnation, saying:
"FIFA condemns the use of force by Russia in Ukraine and any type of violence to resolve conflicts. Violence is never a solution and FIFA calls on all parties to restore peace through constructive dialogue. FIFA also continues to express our solidarity to the people affected by this conflict. Regarding football matters in both Ukraine and Russia, and updates in relation to the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifiers will be communicated in due course."
Ukraine is due to play Scotland in Glasgow in a world cup qualifier in March. However, given the circumstances, it is unclear whether the match will go ahead or whether it will be postponed. On social media, some Scotland fans even suggested deliberately losing the game as a sign of solidarity with Ukraine.
The 2022 World Cup is for the first time this year being played in winter due to Qatar being too hot in the summer months for competitive sport.
[Based on reporting by: The Daily Mail]
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