Poland poised for key Euro 2016 qualifier against Scotland
PR dla Zagranicy
Nick Hodge
08.10.2015 13:21
A victory against Scotland in Glasgow on Thursday will assure Poland's qualification for the finals of Euro 2016.
Polish captain Robert Lewandowski (R) at a training session on Wednesday evening in Warsaw. Photo: PAP/Bartłomiej Zborowski
Poland is currently in second place in its six-team Group D with 17 points, behind Germany (19 points) and ahead of Ireland (15 points). Scotland is currently in fourth place with 11 points.
The top two teams are assured a place in the finals, with just one fixture left for Poland after tonight's game.
“We want to settle the fate of our advance in Glasgow, but it will be very difficult,” Polish coach Adam Nawałka said on the eve of the match.
Polish fans are hoping that captain and striker Robert Lewandowski will rise to the occasion, having pulled off an extraordinary succession of goals in recent weeks, including five in nine minutes for his Bundesliga side Bayern Munich on 22 September.
However, Scottish defender Russell Martin has told Sky Sports that the Polish star will not have an easy ride.
“It’s up to us to stop him,” Martin said.
“I relish challenges like that, I enjoy playing against players like that.
“It’s what I have worked so hard for throughout my career - to test yourself against players like that.”
Kick off at Glasgow's Hampden Park is at 7:45 pm local time (8:45 pm in Poland). (nh/rk)