Saudi Arabia shocked the world when they took all three points against Argentina. A positive result over Poland at the Education City Stadium could see the Green Falcons qualify for the Round of 16. But the bigger question remains, can Poland’s talisman Robert Lewandowski finally get on the scoresheet at a World Cup, closing the gaping hole in his illustrious scoring record?
To Win Match
Poland 4/5 | Draw 9/4 | Saudi Arabia 15/4
Since the dawn of the World Cup’s modern error, Poland have struggled to gain a foothold on a run at glory. Their third-placed finishes in the 70s and 80s respectively are the only saving grace, failing to progress from the group since 1986.
Poland did well not to lose their opening fixture against Mexico. Although under the cosh for a significant amount of the fixture, Poland will feel much better about the result knowing Mexico were the better side. But we know World Cup football is a game of small margins.
Robert Lewandowski has struggled to score on the biggest stage in his fourth World Cup match. You would think that from the penalty spot he would right these wrongs, but the Barcelona man failed to do so. With all due respect, the support in quality around him is non-existent, and a win for either side here is vital.
Saudi Arabia produced one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history as Salem Al-Dawsari’s stunning solo effort secured a 2-1 victory over Argentina to blow Group C wide open.
Saudi held an impressive highline against Argentina in the first 45 and although high risk, with three goals being ruled offside, it paid off in the long run. Despite going down to an early Lionel Messi penalty, the Middle Eastern side stuck to their game plan.
The second 45 was a subtle change that proved vital in their historic victory. Sitting a little deeper, playing with more desire to gain possession on second balls, and capitalizing on opposition errors.
A Messi pass was gobbled up by the Green Falcons earning an all-important equalizer, followed by a moment of brilliance after Argentina was unable to clear the ball, resulting in a 2-1 triumph.
It’s not every day an underdog of that magnitude makes waves and a draw against Poland could be enough to get them across the line.
Verdict: Saudi Arabia First Team to Score (9/4)
A big heart and determination coupled with Saudi Arabian coach Herve Renard’s tactics won the toughest fixture of Group C, and if Poland isn’t up to scratch, they will be punished. The question is, can Saudi play good football on the front foot? I believe they have the confidence to come out guns blazing to earn an early goal and then revert back to the same tactics as their former matchup.
