In a challenging second group stage match of Euro 2024, Poland was defeated 1-3 by Austria. Despite an equalizing goal from Krzysztof Piątek, the Austrian team secured their victory in the second half. Poland, under coach Michał Probierz, now faces a crucial final group match against World Cup runners-up, France.
The term “match of all matches,” familiar to Polish fans, aptly described the pre-game atmosphere at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin. Both teams, having lost their first matches, were in dire need of a win.
Poles Face the Favorites Again
Bookmakers had Austria pegged as the favorites, but Polish fans remained hopeful, chanting “Berlin is ours!” throughout the city. Despite this optimism, Poland faced a setback with Robert Lewandowski not starting due to incomplete recovery from a thigh injury.
Coach Probierz, aiming to balance strategy and player fitness, decided against starting Lewandowski for the full match. Instead, Adam Buksa and Krzysztof Piątek were named in the starting lineup.
Austria Takes Early Lead
As anticipated, Austria started aggressively, quickly halting Polish attempts to build attacks and easily took the lead with a close-range goal by Gernot Trauner.
Poland’s efforts to respond saw Piotr Zieliński’s attempts blocked, one possibly by a handball in the penalty area.
Piątek Restores Hope
Krzysztof Piątek’s close-range goal brought the score to 1-1, reigniting the Polish supporters’ spirits. However, Austria intensified their offensive efforts, leading to frequent fouls that kept the Turkish referee busy, though he refrained from issuing yellow cards before halftime.
The introduction of Jakub Moder for Jakub Piotrowski at the start of the second half aimed to strengthen Poland’s midfield. Despite the change, Lewandowski remained on the bench.
Austria continued their fierce play, and the referee eventually issued his first yellow card to Poland’s Bartosz Slisz for a clear jersey pull.
As the second half progressed, Austria managed to outmaneuver Poland, scoring two additional goals and securing their victory. Poland now looks ahead to their final group stage match against France, needing to emerge with honor.