Ukraine to play football friendly next month in run-up to possible Wales fixture in June
Ukraine’s first fixture since the country was invaded by Russia has been announced, with a friendly in Germany serving as preparation for their World Cup play-off against Scotland and then possibly Wales.
Scotland will host Ukraine at Hampden Park in Glasgow on June 1. The winners will play Wales in Cardiff four days later to decide the final European place at the World Cup in Qatar.
Bundesliga outfit Borussia Monchengladbach will now host Ukraine on May 11 with all profits from the game donated to charitable causes for the Ukrainian people.
Chief executive Stephan Schippers told the club website: “We’re very happy to be able to help the Ukrainian FA through this game, and hope that as many football fans as possible from all over the country come to the stadium and make a donation to a good cause by buying a ticket to the match.
“All Ukrainian citizens will have free entry to the game.”
Ukraine have not played since a 2-0 win away to Bosnia-Herzegovina in November secured their place in the 2022 World Cup play-offs.
Their play-off semi-final against Scotland had been due to take place on March 24.
But the tie was delayed for over two months after Ukraine was invaded by Russia on February 24.
Wales beat Austria on 24 March to secure their own place in the play-off final.
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Although I’m quietly confident. We in Wales have always faced being the underdog when it comes to qualifying for tournaments. And we know the footballing world will be supporting Ukraine as they were with Denmark and will be a pariah. Just look at the recent English media attitude to both Wales & Scotland. Recently politicians & commentators they expected us to forgo our right to play in the World Cup so Ukraine could enter. No calls for England to fall on its sword even though they a qualify regularly for World Cups. A very selfish attitude to expect us but… Read more »