Czechs refuse to play potential World Cup qualifier against Russia

The Czech Republic will not play a potential football World Cup playoff against Russia following the country’s invasion of Ukraine, the Czech Football Association said. A spokesperson said the Czech national team would under no circumstances take part in a possible game against the Russians.

Russia are due to host Poland in the semi-finals of World Cup playoffs on March 24. If they advance, they would face either the Czech Republic or Sweden five days later.