Russian Football Union (RFU) has decided against playing a match against Pakistan football team in the current October International Window after it was revealed that Pakistan would be sending an unofficial side to Russia.
RFU communication services released a statement, stating ‘The RFU continued to discuss with Pakistan the possibility of a friendly match, however, based on the time frame of the training camp that has begun, it decided not to hold the game.’
Earlier, it was revealed that the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) would send an unofficial football team to play a friendly match against Russia after the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) had already decided against sending the officialNational Team. The decision was made by the PFF after FIFA refused to provide the funds for the match.
Although the opportunity to play against Russia would have been some occasion for the Pakistan Football Team, but after recent developments it comes as good news for football in the country as it could have led to serious repercussions by FIFA for sending an unofficial side.
Pakistan National Team will be hoping that some friendly matches are arranged for the November International Window, but it looks highly unlikely. As for Russia, they have indicated of arranging friendlies after the conclusion of their training camp.