Poland takes on surprise group leaders Saudi Arabia today, in a crucial battle for qualification in World Cup 2022 Group C.
Robert Lewandowski missed a penalty as the Bialo-czerwoni drew 0-0 to Mexico in Tuesday’s opener, while their opponents beat Argentina to pull off one of the greatest World Cup upsets in living memory.
Following an uninspiring, perhaps overly-cautious first 45 minutes at Stadium 974 on Tuesday, Poland were presented with a golden opportunity to snatch all three points against Mexico, as their talisman Lewandowski was wrestled to the ground in the penalty area by Hector Moreno.
World Cup hero Guillermo Ochoa was there to deny the country’s record goalscorer, however, as the Barcelona forward failed to convert from 12 yards for the second time this month.
If Poland are to stand any chance of progressing, a victory is vitally important here, and they will have to be on their toes against a high-pressing Saudi Arabia side, who will still be riding the wave of their greatest-ever victory.
Salem Al-Dawsari’s spectacular winning goal on Tuesday will go down in World Cup folklore, as the 31-year-old’s sensational curling finish condemned Argentina to their first defeat in 36 outings.
Herve Renard’s side impressed with their bold style of play, incorporating a dangerously high and aggressive line, springing the offside trap an incredible 10 times.
In the middle, Mohamed Kanno played the role of midfield enforcer almost perfectly, while the Hassan Al Tambakti put in a heroic performance in the centre of defence.
With three points already secured, another result here would put them well on their way to a first run to the knockout stages since 1994.
LIVE: Poland v Saudi Arabia | World Cup 2022
