Led by their star striker Robert Lewandowski, Poland can dream of qualifying from a group featuring Argentina, Mexico and Saudi Arabia. Nevertheless, we do not expect this team to get past the group phase, although we can already anticipate a possible final with Mexico for second place. However, the Polish have less experience at this level than the North American country.
Poland have never played in the World Cup final but can boast two 3rd place finishes, in 1974 and 1982. To do so, the Białe Orły dominated two historic nations, Brazil in 1974 (1-0) and France in 1982 (3-2).
The World Cup Qualification Campaign:
Poland had an interesting run, finishing in second place with 20 points from 30. The Białe Orły won 6 matches, drew 2 and lost 2. Six points behind England, the Polish side held off Albania and Hungary, third and fourth respectively with 2 and 3 points less. Andorra and San Marino, as expected, also failed to perform. In the playoffs, the Polish were due to face Russia, but following the latter’s invasion of Ukraine, Putin’s country was disqualified. So it only took one game for Poland to qualify for the World Cup, against Sweden, who were beaten 2-0.
Poland have good players and a good team. However, the main problem for this nation is the lack of consistency. For example, the Polish squad is capable of neutralising England as well as losing at home to Hungary. This almost cost them dearly in the end, but in the end, Lewandowski’s teammates will be at the World Cup.
Poland’s Key Players
- Robert Lewandowski (33). He is obviously the star of this Polish squad. The Barcelona striker has been considered one of the best strikers in the world for years. He still has stellar statistics this season.
- Wojciech Szczesny (32). The former Arsenal goalkeeper has been with the national team since 2009 and is one of the natural leaders of the Polish team. He is well established in the goal of Białe Orły and is a key member of the squad, giving the others the benefit of his experience, having played in some of the biggest clubs.
- Kamil Glik (34). With nearly 100 caps for the national team, the former Monaco centre-back is rising to prominence with his country. His great size is an asset, which allows him to win many aerial battles.
