Finland 'extremely disappointed' with Belarus inclusion following UNL draw

Helsinki Olympic Stadium may not host Finland vs Belarus match
Helsinki Olympic Stadium may not host Finland vs Belarus matchMaciej Rogowski / Alamy / Profimedia

The Finnish Football Association has stated they are "still extremely disappointed" that Belarus will be part of the 2026/27 UEFA Nations League (UNL) after the two were pitted together in yesterday's draw.

Finland, Belarus, Albania and San Marino are the four teams who make up Group C1 of the competition, with the Group Stage set to be played from September to November 2026. The Eagle Owls were relegated from League B in the previous edition of the UNL.

Taking to the official social media accounts of the Finland men's national team, a post announcing Finland's opponents read as follows, "The football association and the Finnish team are still extremely disappointed that Belarus is a part of the competition."

Unlike Russia, Belarus were not banned from competing in international competition following the outbreak of the war in Ukraine in 2022, despite many calling for the White Wings to face a similar suspension.

The statement went on to say that a meeting on 16th March will determine the location of the home match with Belarus, which fuels speculation that the match could be played at a neutral venue.

To reach the decision, the Finnish FA has said that "players, supporters and other key stakeholders will also be heard in the matter."

Finland have also announced they will face New Zealand and Cape Verde at Eden Park in Auckland as part of the FIFA Series in March, plus a June friendly away to Hungary.

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