The decision of the FIFA to play the European playoff matches against Russia on neutral ground, was rejected by Poland, classifying it as a decision “ unacceptable” for them.
The president of the Polish Football Federation, Cezary Kulesza, was firm in his decision not to play against the Russian team led by Valeri Karpin, after confirming FIFA’s decision that the Russian team play its match without its flag, anthem and without shield.
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.
— Cezary Kulesza (@Czarek_Kulesza) February 09, 2022
“Today’s FIFA decision is totally unacceptable. We are not interested in participating in this game of appearances. Our position remains intact: the Polish national team WILL NOT PLAY against Russia, regardless of the name of the team”, he published.
The football federations of Czech Republic and Sweden, also set a position not to play the match against the Russian National Team, while maintain the armed conflict against Ukraine.