FIFA forced into action on Ukraine invasion as Russia’s World Cup opponents refuse to face them in play-off

Poland, Sweden and the Czech Republic have all announced their intention to refuse to play Russia in their World Cup play-off after the invasion of Ukraine.

Cezary Kulesza, president of the Polish football federation, stated on Saturday morning that his country wants their opponents kicked out of the competition.

Russia are scheduled to face Poland on March 24 in Moscow with the winner due to face Czech Republic or Sweden for a place in Qatar 2022.

“No more words, time to act!” wrote Kulesza. “Due to the escalation of the aggression of the Russian federation towards Ukraine, the Polish national team does not intend to play the play-off match against Russia.

“This is the only right decision. We are in talks with the Swedish and Czech federations to present a common position to FIFA.”

Ukraine borders Poland to its west and Russian attacks on its neighbour have occurred only a few miles from Polish territory. FIFA will now be forced into executing an opinion on the conflict, something it has so far avoided.

Swedish Football Association chairman Karl-Erik Nilsson backed the decision, stating: “The illegal and deeply unjust invasion of Ukraine currently makes all football exchanges with Russia impossible.

“We therefore urge FIFA to decide that the play-off matches in March in which Russia participates will be cancelled. But regardless of what FIFA chooses to do, we will not play against Russia in March.”

Their Czech counterparts added their voice to the refusal on Sunday, and said: “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.”

Polish captain Robert Lewandowski stated his support for the decision as the sporting world begins to take action against Russia. Saint Petersburg was stripped of the Champions League final on Friday while Sochi lost its Formula One Grand Prix.

“It is the right decision!” he tweeted.

“I can’t imagine playing a match with the Russian national team in a situation when armed aggression in Ukraine continues. Russian footballers and fans are not responsible for this, but we can’t pretend that nothing is happening.”

Goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny wrote on his Instagram account: “I refuse to play against players who choose to represent the values and principles of Russia!

“I refuse to stand on the pitch, wearing the colours of my country and listen to the national anthem of Russia! I refuse to take part in a sporting event that legitimises the actions of the Russian government.

“I know my impact may only be symbolic but I call on FIFA and UEFA to take action and hold the Russian federation accountable for their actions.”