Netherlands not willing to host Russia in European Qualifiers clash

Following the loss to Russia on Thursday, the Netherlands has no plan to host the Russian NT in the reverse fixture Sunday evening.

The Netherlands Basketball Federation released a statement about the 2023 FIBA World Cup European Qualifiers Gameday 3 fixture and made intentions clear for Sunday’s contest.

The Netherlands team arrived in Perm, Russia prior to the invasion in Ukraine. They elect to play as it was the best solution for the national team already in Russia and wanting to return home safely, as noted in the press release.

Pending FIBA’s decision, the game is certainly not expected to take place according to the original schedule.

The Netherlands national team lost, 80-69, to Russia in Perm falling to 0-3 in Group H of the ongoing stage of the European Qualifiers.

Several teams have expressed the unwillingness to travel or play in Eastern Europe in the light of the events in Ukraine.

Photo: FIBA Basketball

#FIBA #Netherlands #RussiaNT