Sweden Refuse To Play Russia 'Regardless Where The Match Is Played'

The Swedish Football Association has refused to play Russia after the invasion of Ukraine.

The SvFF have said via translated text: "The men's national team will not play against Russia - regardless of where the match is played.

"The Federal Board also urges FIFA to cancel the play-off matches in March in which Russia participates."

Sweden look to have now joined Poland in the boycott of playing Russia in the upcoming World Cup.

On Saturday (26 February) Poland refused to play against Russia in their upcoming World Cup qualifier.

The nations were due to face off next month, but the president of Poland's Football Association, Cezary Kulesza, has said pulling out of the match was the 'only right decision'.

He tweeted: "No more words, time to act!"

Russia is due to host Poland in the semi-finals of its strand of the World Cup playoffs on 24 March, before taking on either Sweden or the Czech Republic on 29 March, if they progress.

Poland's star striker Robert Lewandowski backed the decision to withdraw from the match.

He tweeted: "It is the right decision! 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."

Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny wrote on Instagram: “My wife was born in Ukraine, there is Ukrainian blood running through the veins of my son, part of our family is still in Ukraine, a lot of my workers are Ukrainian and they’re all great people.

“Seeing the suffering on their faces and fear for their country makes me realise I can’t stand still and pretend that nothing has happened.

“The moment Putin decided to invade Ukraine he declared war not only on Ukraine but also on all the values Europe stands for. Liberty, Independence but most of all Peace."

He added: “On 26th of March we were supposed to play against Russia in a play-off match for 2022 World Cup in Qatar. And although my heart breaks while writing this, my conscience will not let me play.

“Representing your country is the biggest honour in a footballer’s career but it’s still a choice. 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 Russian federation accountable for their actions.”