Euro 2024: Poland ‘Missed Moment’ with Lewandowski Return

Poland’s coach in Euro 2024, Michal Probierz, regretted Poland ‘Missed Moment, the opportunity to utilize Robert Lewandowski earlier in the match against Austria. Despite the decision being made in consultation with the medical team and the player himself, the team could not secure a victory, falling 3-1 in Berlin. Probierz mentioned that they had hoped to penetrate the Austrian defense in the second half, but unfortunately, they were unable to find the back of the net.

Ralf Rangnick’s side cruised to victory over Poland courtesy of goals from Gernot Trauner, Christoph Baumgartner, and Marko Arnautovic.

“We missed that moment.”

Austria wasted no time in taking control of the game, showcasing Rangnick’s fast and aggressive style. Within just 10 minutes, center-back Trauner’s impressive header found the back of the net, putting Austria in the lead against Poland.

However, Poland showed resilience and managed to withstand Austria’s relentless pressure. They seized an opportunity on the half-hour mark when Rangnick’s team failed to clear a corner, allowing Krzysztof Piatek to swiftly score and level the game.

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In the second half, Poland brought on the talented Robert Lewandowski in hopes of turning the tide. Unfortunately for them, Austria struck back with a well-executed play, as Baumgartner sealed their lead. To add insult to injury, Arnautovic’s late penalty extended Austria’s advantage, leaving Poland empty-handed in their pursuit of three crucial points.

Lewandowski, who missed the 2-1 defeat by the Netherlands in their opening group game due to an injury, lit up the crowd when he came in on the hour mark to the relief of fans who had been wondering if he would spend the full 90 on the sidelines.

However, his presence on the field failed to translate into a winning edge for the team. Poland had gone into half-time tied with Austria who had taken the lead with a nine-minute goal before striker Krzysztof Piatek levelled on the half-hour mark.

It took less than seven minutes after Lewandowski, who boasts a remarkable 82 goals in more than 150 internationals, was on the field for Austria’s Christoph Baumgartner to net a second goal, followed by a Marko Arnautovic penalty 12 minutes later.

Though they still have a chance of making it through to the knockout stage, Poland will be unable to finish in the top two should France avoid defeat by the Netherlands later on Friday.

Probierz promised that the team could play more aggressively when they face France in their final group game on Tuesday in Dortmund.

“For us, it is still a journey, and for us, we play very good football,” he said.

Probierz’s Austrian counterpart Ralf Rangnick, meanwhile, was thrilled with his side’s performance that kept them firmly in the running for a place in the knockout stage.

“The first 20 minutes were maybe perfect on our side,” the 65-year-old said, adding: “In the second half we controlled the match.”

Rangnick in particular praised Baumgartner, who ran straight up to his coach to hug him after scoring Austria’s second goal.

“I told him at half-time that he is a very important player and that he can make a difference,” Rangnick said.

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The Unfortunate outcome
Robert Lewandowski’s hopes of making a mark in the tournament have been dashed. Despite his introduction in the game against Austria, the 35-year-old was unable to make a significant impact and even received a yellow card for an elbow incident involving Philipp Leinhart.

What lies ahead? 
Austria is now setting their sights on advancing to the knockout round, and a win against the Netherlands on Tuesday will secure their place. On the other hand, Poland faces a daunting task against France, fully aware that their tournament dreams are likely to be shattered after this defeat.