The football federations of Poland, Sweden and the Czech Republic have demanded their 2022 World Cup play-offs be moved from Russia to a neutral venue after the country’s invasion of Ukraine.

The trio wrote to world football governing body FIFA, saying they “do not consider” travel to Russia for matches in light of increased risk to their players and the staff.

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They called for “alternative solutions” to where the games could be played next month.

Russia is due to host Poland in the semi-finals on March 24 with the winners then welcoming the Swedes or Czechs five days later for a place in Qatar later this year. (DPA/NAN)