FIFA delays the ‘playoff’ of Ukraine and gives the pass to Poland after eliminating Russia

MADRID, 8 Mar. (EUROPA PRESS) –

The Ukrainian national team will visit Scotland in June instead of this month in their play-off semifinal of the Qatar 2022 World Cup, after the invasion of Russia, according to the world soccer governing body, FIFA, on Tuesday.

He also confirmed that Poland will go straight to the final of their draw after Russia’s elimination and will face the winner of Sweden and the Czech Republic for a ticket to the World Cup later this year.

Russia challenged this decision, in addition to the suspension of its clubs in European competitions, before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), considering that “there is no legal basis” for said sanction that will also leave its team without a World Cup.

Ukraine were due to visit Glasgow on March 24, but have requested a postponement and this tie will now take place in early June, in a ‘window’ that previously hosted Nations League matches.

“Following consultations with UEFA and the four member associations participating in Path A of the European qualifying play-offs, it was unanimously agreed and in a spirit of solidarity to accept this request,” FIFA said.

Wales-Austria, the other semi-final en route to the World Cup in Ukraine, will take place shortly after the other semi-final in June. FIFA said that the dates have not yet been finalized and will offer more information when they are confirmed.