Tactical Analysis: Poland vs. Slovakia

“The look on Polish faces tells the story,” ITV Sport commentator Sam Matterface remarked at full-time in St. Petersburg. “They lost the first game of their World Cup campaign three years ago and it set the tone for what would be a very difficult tournament for them. They hoped to avoid that disappointment this time out but that outcome hasn’t transpired.”

As a result, Poland head coach Paulo Sousa could only shake his head as his side left the field following their 2-1 defeat against Slovakia on Monday evening.  The Orły started poorly, falling behind after 18 minutes courtesy of a Wojciech Szczęsny own goal – although Robert Mak deserves credit for Slovakia’s opener.

After receiving possession on the left flank, the Ferencvárosi midfielder cut inside, beating two defenders in the process, before firing a low shot against the upright. Having already committed to his dive, Szczęsny was powerless to resist as the ball cannoned off his back and into Poland’s net. The favourites equalised almost immediately after the break, though, with Karol Linetty beating Martin Dubravka following a cut-back from Maciej Rybus.

However, Poland’s lead didn’t last. Moments after Grzegorz Krychowiak was dismissed for a second bookable offence, standout centre back Milan Skriniar scored the winning goal with a firm strike following a Slovakian set piece. Although the favourites had opportunities to equalise in the closing stages, record-breaking Bayern Munich forward Robert Lewandowski was kept quiet by Stefan Tarkovic’s side.