February 13 – The Serbian Football Federation (FSS) will receive €250,000 for the friendly game against Russia, to be played on March 21 in Moscow, according to FSS Vice President Branislav Nedimović.

The match will be the first for the Russian national team against a European opponent since Russia began military operations against Ukraine in February 2022 and international sanctions were imposed on the country.

In addition to paying the fee, the Russian Football Union will also cover all expenses for Serbia’s travel and stay in Moscow, Nedimović confirmed.

The news of the friendly game between Russia and Serbia has been met with criticism from the Western world.

UEFA confirmed it had given permission for the game. Russian national teams and clubs are banned from UEFA competitions, but that suspension does not apply to friendlies.

Since the invasion of Ukraine saw Russia removed from international competitions, the Russian national team has mostly organised friendlies against teams from Asia and Africa.

“There are three major reasons why the duel with Russia is a positive thing for FSS. First, we are talking about a quality national team and our boys will have a great test to see where they are with their form ahead of the European Championship. The association will collect €250,000. And thirdly, the Russian Federation bears the entire costs, which is certainly not an insignificant fact.

“They chose the Dinamo stadium, which the president of their association says is the most beautiful in Russia, they invited Djokovic and Bikovic as special guests, and all that speaks volumes for how much they value us and how much importance they attach to the upcoming game,” said Nedimović.

“It is incredible that the match is being talked about more in all other countries, except Serbia and Russia. Let’s be clear, we received the approval of UEFA and FIFA, as President Aleksandar Čeferin said in a recent interview, and there is nothing in dispute from that side. It is a sporting event that has nothing to do with politics. Serbia has always been in the mood to meet everyone, and we felt the best first-hand what it means when someone forbids you to play in big competitions,” added Nedimović.

Contact the writer of this story, Aleksander Krassimirov, at moc.l1714050227labto1714050227ofdlr1714050227owedi1714050227sni@o1714050227fni1714050227