The possibility of playing a World Cup qualifier in Moscow next month is ‘unthinkable’, says the Swedish FA
Karl-Erik Nilsson, President of the Swedish Football Association, says that it would be “unthinkable” for Sweden to play a World Cup qualification playoff in Russia next month given the special military operation launched by Russian President Vladimir Putin overnight.
Sweden are set to play the Czech Republic in a month’s time, with the winner of that fixture set to take on the winner of the knockout fixture between Russia and Poland
But faced with the prospect of a pivotal game against Russia, Nilsson says that it would be unfathomable to travel to Moscow in a sporting context.
“The world situation is completely different today and all thoughts go to Ukraine and the many friends we have there,“ said Nilsson, via translation.
“As the situation looks today, it feels impossible to imagine that in a few weeks we will possibly play a match in Russia.
“We are awaiting information from international and national authorities and for dialogue with FIFA and UEFA on the issue. We have to follow developments day by day, but right now it feels unthinkable.“
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