We Won’t Play Against Russia, It’s ‘Totally Unacceptable’ – Poland FA

• Fumes over Ukraine invasion

Despite FIFA’s orders that Russia will play its matches without flag and anthem as Football Union of Russia, the Poland Football Association (PFA) President, Cezary Kulesza has hit out at World’s soccer governing body for allowing President Vladimir Putin’s men continuous participation in the 2022 World Cup qualifying series

Criticising FIFA’s decision in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the PFA said it is not enough to rule that Russia will play their next matches without their flag or national anthem and in neutral territory under the name “Football Union of Russia”.

Kulesza said the Polish association is unhappy with FIFA’s decision that seems to pamper Russia, saying; “Today’s FIFA decision is totally unacceptable. We are not interested in participating in this game of appearances.

“Our stance remains intact: Polish national team will not play with Russia, no matter what the name of the team is.”

Russia are scheduled to face Poland in a World Cup qualifying play-off match, initially in Moscow, on March 24, with the winner going on to meet the Czech Republic or Sweden.

But the trio of Poland, Sweden, and the Czech Republic have all announced their refusal to play against Russia and called on FIFA to expel the country from the competition.

FIFA’s Controversial  Statement
A FIFA statement read: “First and foremost, FIFA would like to reiterate its condemnation of the use of force by Russia in its invasion of Ukraine. Violence is never a solution and FIFA expresses its deepest solidarity to all people affected by what is happening in Ukraine.

“FIFA calls again for the urgent restoration of peace and for constructive dialogue to commence immediately. FIFA remains in close contact with the Ukrainian Association of Football and members of the Ukrainian football community who have been requesting support to leave the country for as long as the current conflict persists.”

The statement then listed the measures that will apply until further notice: “No international competition shall be played on the territory of Russia, with “home” matches being played on neutral territory and without spectators

“The member association representing Russia shall participate in any competition under the name “Football Union of Russia (RFU)” and not “Russia”

“No flag or anthem of Russia will be used in matches where teams from the Football Union of Russia participate.” – With agency reports