Cardiff Stadium was abuzz with anticipation and excitement on the 26th of March 2024 as Wales played host to Robert Lewandowski’s Poland, with the UEFA Euro 2024 spot on the line.
After an enthralling 120 minutes, despite the absence of goals, Lewandowski’s Poland progressed 5-4 on penalties to book their tickets to the Euro Cup in Germany this June.
Wojciech Szczęsny, the 33-year-old Polish shot-stopper, was rightly praised for his penalty heroics but the scoreline doesn’t do justice to Lewandowski’s performance. He was the heart and soul of the team and put on a tireless display to help his side prevail.
It was by no means a vintage Robert Lewandowski performance but the Polish ace was involved in most of the promising attacks for his team. From leading the line to squaring up delightful passes and linking up in the build-up play, the 35-year-old Barcelona marksman was instrumental in Poland’s attacking prowess.
The veteran Barcelona forward squandered a promising header and went close with a long-range effort. However, he showed no hesitation in stepping up for the penalty shootout, confidently dispatching the first kick home and setting the tone for the others to follow.
Lewandowski’s fitness and perseverance were on display as he continued going strong despite suffering a strong blow towards the end of normal time. At 35, Lewandowski might not be his prolific goal-scoring self but he still is one of the fittest and most dedicated professionals going around.
Michal Probierz, the Poland national team coach, as highlighted by Mundo Deportivo, was also running out of words to praise his captain.
“There are few players like Robert Lewandowski in the world. He sacrificed himself for the team. He subordinated everything to the collective. With him, this team can still achieve a lot.”
Lewandowski over the course of his career has set unparalleled standards for himself and has earned recognition at both club and country level.
Having ticked off his primary objective of securing qualification for the Euros 2024, Lewandowski would now be looking to lead his country far into the competition. The striker is geared up and ready to fire on all fronts as we approach the final stretch of the season.
