Sweden confirm they will boycott Russia game regardless of venue

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Sweden have joined Poland in refusing to face Russia in their World Cup qualifying fixtures in March.

A statement read: "The Swedish Football Association's board has decided that the Swedish men's national team will not play a possible playoff match 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.

Poland are currently due to face Russia on March 25, and the winner will face either Sweden or Czechia for a spot at the 2022 World Cup.

Poland have already announced their intentions to boycott the fixture.

A spokesman from the Polish FA told Sky Sports News: "No more words, it's time to act.

"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 bring forward a common position to FIFA."

What do you think of Sweden and Ukraine's decision? Let us know in the comments section

Poland also announced their intentions to allow Ukraine to play their home matches in Poland.

Ukraine are due to play Scotland in their World Cup play-off at Hampden Park on March 24.

Should Ukraine win they will then play the winner of either Wales or Austria in Cardiff or Vienna on March 29.

  • World Cup
  • Russia
  • Russia Ukraine war

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