The Russian men’s national football team will not participate in any friendly matches during the October international break, the Russian Football Union (RFU) announced on Wednesday. This development underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Russian football due to international sanctions imposed following the country’s invasion of Ukraine.
The RFU had been in negotiations with Pakistan to arrange a friendly match this month. However, Pakistani media outlet Geo News reported that the two sides failed to reach an agreement. Russia reportedly offered to host the match on October 11 and cover all expenses, but Pakistan declined, citing insufficient preparation time. The Pakistani side suggested postponing the match to November.
In lieu of international matches, the RFU has organized an alternative event. On October 10, the national team will hold a training session and fan meet at Dynamo stadium in Moscow, inviting children from the Belgorod and Kursk regions bordering Ukraine to participate.
Russia continues to face significant isolation in international football. FIFA and UEFA sanctions bar the country from participating in official competitions, including World Cup qualifiers and European Championships. While Russia is permitted to play friendly matches, many nations have refused to face them, further limiting their options for international play.
Despite the current setback, the RFU expressed optimism about future engagements. Head coach Valery Karpin told reporters that the national team has finalized opponents for friendlies during the November international break, including a match against Syria.
themoscowtimes
