Poland vs Spain Preview
Poland: Tale of the Tape
Form: L-D-D-L-W
Lineup: Szczesny; Bereszynski, Glik, Bednarek; Jozwiak, Klich, Linetty, Rybus; Zielinski; Swiderski, Lewandowski
Poland is looking to follow up on their Euro 2016 quarterfinal appearance with an even deeper run this year, but they now enter a must-win situation.
The return of Golden Shoe winner Robert Lewandowski should do wonders for Paulo Sousa’s front line. The Bayern Munich forward had a stellar campaign, netting 48 goals across all competitions and capturing his first Golden Shoe Award in the process. The loss of Arkadiusz Milik to injury will sting though. The Marseille striker scored Poland’s first goal during their run to quarterfinals of Euro 2016.
Milik’s absence will put a bit more pressure on Lewa to produce this summer, but despite their recent form, Poland bolsters a a strong squad. Piast Gliwice forward Jakub Swierczok looks slated to slide in Milik’s role after scoring in last month’s draw with Russia. Longtime midfielder Grzegorz Krychowiak is set to make his 72nd cap, which is third most all-time for the Polish.
Southampton’s Jan Bednarek highlights the back line, and he scored the winning goal against Japan at the 2018 World Cup. Wojcjech Szczesny completed another solid season with Juventus, and he’ll make his 53nd appearance in goal for Poland.
Spain: Tale of the Tape
Form: D-W-D-W-W
Lineup: Simon; Marcos Llorente, Laporte, Pau Torres, Alba; Koke, Rodri, Thiago; Ferran Torres, Morata, Olmo
After having 86% possession, 917 passes and 17 shots later, it was confusing not seeing Spain find the back of the net against Sweden. The Spanish team completely dominated Sweden, missing some opportunities which could have given them all three points.
Luis Enrique will be without the services of his captain Sergio Busquets again, as the Barcelona captain missed the opener with a positive coronavirus test and and he’s set to sit out of the Poland clash. However, the midfielder could be available for the final group game against Slovakia that will prove clutch. Rodri is likely to continue in the anchoring role.
Thiago Alcantara likely to replace the exciting Pedri in the lineup. Pedri had a good game, but Alcantara might provide the quality needed with a must-win situation at hand.
The defence is expected to be the same, although there could be changes up top if necessary. Alvaro Morata likely retains the trust of his manager and could keep his spot, but it could open the door for Gerard Morena. Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres will also start wide positions.
Players to Watch
Alvaro Morata
Can the former Real forward bounce back after a tough miss in the opener? He’ll have to shake back mentally as this match has turned into a must-win situation.
Robert Lewandowski
Lewa is the guy you want in this situation, but can the Polish midfield create enough chances for the Bayern star to put them over the top? It remains to be seen, but he s sure to be the best player on the pitch today.
Spain vs. Poland Prediction & Pick
Which forward leaves their mark on this game, Alvaro Morata or Robert Lewandowski? These questions are often discussed before such crucial games, but if we are judging teams for their form, then Spain will edge Poland in this match. Poland does have the attacking threat of Lewandowski, but they have shown nothing as a unit so far. On the other hand, Spain will create more chances, and this time, expect their forwards to produce and finish. Bet on Spain to defeat Poland this afternoon.
Keep up with your latest sports news coverage and betting pick previews at USA Wager.
