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Robert Lewandowski makes Ukraine pledge for 2022 World Cup

Robert Lewandowski, Andriy Shevchenko
© LaureusSport
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The FC Barcelona striker met Ukraine’s all-time record goalscorer Andriy Shevchenko in Warsaw.

Poland captain Robert Lewandowski has pledged to wear the Ukrainian colors at the 2022 World Cup.

The 34-year-old met former Ukraine manager and captain Andriy Shevchenko at Warsaw’s national stadium to receive the Ukrainian yellow and blue armband, which he’ll wear in Qatar as a show of solidarity for those suffering from the war with Russia in the Eastern European nation.

“I will carry the colors of Ukraine to the World Cup. As a player and a man, I support peace. I believe such symbolic gestures matter,” Lewandowski said.

“I believe that as athletes, we should use the power of sport for good. I’m going to take Andriy’s armband to the World Cup in November as a reminder that Ukrainian people are not alone and are not forgotten.

“It means a lot to me to stand here with Andriy, a footballer and a man who has used his voice and platform to influence positive change.”

Shevchenko added: “For me, the captain’s armband symbolizes leadership, strength, and passion for your country. I want to pass this armband to Robert to thank him for his support, voice, and platform in supporting my country and calling for peace.”

Lewandowski and Poland will take on Mexico on November 18 for their first match of the World Cup. The Eagles are in Group C alongside Mexico, Argentina, and Saudi Arabia.

For this week, Czesław Michniewicz’s side will face the Netherlands on Thursday for a UEFA Nations League match. They’ll then visit Wales this Sunday.

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