Polish soccer star Robert Lewandowski supported Poland’s decision to cancel its FIFA World Cup qualifier against Russia and expressed his protest at the invasion of Ukraine.
Can’t imagine playing with Russia: Lewandowski backs Poland’s decision (AFP Photo)
HIGHLIGHTS
- Poland were due to play Russia in a World Cup qualifier in March
- That’s the only right decision, Polish Football Union
- Polish star Robert Lewandowski backed the Polish Football Association’s decision
Poland will not play a World Cup qualifier against Russia in protest at Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in March, Polish Football Association president Cezary Kulesza said on Saturday.
Despite Russia losing high-profile sporting events, including the men’s Champions League final and the F1 race of the Russian Grand Prix, the Polish FA has opted against participating in World Cup qualifiers.
Responding to the Polish Football Federation’s reaction, star footballer Robert Lewandowski said on Saturday that he supported the decision and couldn’t imagine playing football with Russia given what was going on.
“It’s the right decision! I can’t imagine playing a game with the Russian national team in a situation where armed aggression continues in Ukraine. Russian footballers and fans aren’t responsible for that, but we can’t pretend as if nothing happened.” ‘ Lewandowski said in a tweet.
It’s the right decision! I can’t imagine playing with the Russian national team in a situation where armed aggression in Ukraine is ongoing. Russian footballers and fans are not responsible for this, but we cannot pretend nothing is happening. https://t.co/rfnfbXzdjF
— Robert Lewandowski (@lewy_official) February 26, 2022
Kulesza said the federation is in talks with its Swedish and Czech counterparts about playoff games scheduled for March to fill a spot for the World Cup.
“Given the escalation of the Russian Federation’s aggression against Ukraine, the Polish national team will not play a game against the Russian Republic,” Kulesza said on Twitter.
“It’s the only right decision. We are in talks with the Swedish and Czech associations to present a common position to FIFA.”
Russia will host Poland in the semi-finals of their World Cup playoffs on March 24 and, if their team progress, will host either Sweden or the Czech Republic in the Path B finals on March 29.
