The Ukrainian Football Federation (UAF) has filed a formal request to FIFA to postpone Ukraine's World Cup playoff semi-final against Scotland on March 24 due to the Russian invasion of the country last week.
Ukraine, who had qualified for their Path A playoff as runners-up to world champions France in Group D of the UEFA qualification section, faced off at Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland, away from Wales with a potential playoff decider. was earlier. Austria.
But with large parts of Ukraine now subject to intense fighting between Ukrainian and Russian forces and many members of the international squad unable to leave the country, the UAF is calling for the Scottish Games to be postponed.
Confirming the UAF's request, FIFA said they are in "regular contact with UEFA and the Scottish Football Association to find an appropriate solution."
Sources have told ESPN that both FIFA and UEFA are on standby to help Ukraine attempt to secure the safe evacuation of players if requested, but both organizations support whatever situation they choose for players and the UAF. aware of the need to do so. to take.
Fifteen members of the 23-man squad that played in Ukraine's most recent game – a World Cup qualifier against Bosnia last November – play their club football in Ukraine, and sources have told ESPN that almost all Ukrainian players have been in the past. The country since the month suspended the domestic league.
A government order has been issued in Ukraine for all men aged 18 to 60 to stay in the country, and sources have said players from the national team are determined to answer that call and return to their homes and families. do not leave.
Players have also been unable to train since the outbreak of the war, so the prospect of preparing for and playing against Scotland later this month has been deemed unrealistic in recent days by the UAF, UEFA and FIFA.
FIFA is due to consider Ukraine's request to postpone the game, and sources have said the game is likely to be rescheduled for June - the intercontinental playoffs are due to be played in Qatar on 13 and 14 June - if the country in the situation. can be resolved.