Belgium won their second victory in the tournament and took three points ahead of Poland at second in Group A4 following Michy Batshuayi's goal brought them victory in Warsaw.
Important moments
- 16' Batshuayi heads in Tielemans cross
- 30' Szymanski shoots over crossbar
- 45' Zalewski goes close with shot
- 83' Szczesny denies Trossard
- 90' of Swiderski's header strikes woodwork
Match Report Poland vs Belgium
Belgium had the upper hand throughout the first half of Warsaw in the first half, looking for opportunities against opposition as Robert Lewandowski restored as their spearhead. Their pressure was evident at the end of 16 minutes, Michy Batshuayi meeting a elegant Youri Tielemans cross from the right side with an impressive header over Wojciech Szczesny.
With a lively the home fans, Poland started to form an upper line, Lewandowski encouraging his team-mates to narrow the gap between attack and midfield. They were rewarded by excellent opportunities of Sebastian Szymanski and Nicola Zalewski however, both players were able to miss the target when placed in the penalty zone.
Poland were cheered on each when they attacked, however Belgium appeared to be at ease following the break. As time drew closer Poland defended their possession with ease, which led to Czeslaw Michniewicz, who was playing in the middle, to shift his midfield position in an effort to regain over the ball.
In a furious closing sequence, Jacek Goralski flashed a first-time shot over the crossbar, and Lois Openda tested Szczesny either the other side of Leandro Trossard who was close to scoring to Belgium at the opposite end. The game was entering additional minutes, Karol Swiderski headed Lewandowski's wonderful cross into the woodwork, disappointing the crowd of nearly 57,000. Belgium so far held on by three points, putting them three points clear of Poland in second place , and three points ahead of the leaders in the section, the Netherlands.
Poland had a far superior performance the defeat of 6-1 in the first time these two teams met however it was insufficient to gain them a point. Belgium amazed with their ability to manage the game and adjust the pace according to what they desired. The hosts performed better in the second period and might have even equalised by scoring twice, with Swiderski getting close but it didn't happen.
Reaction
Czeslaw Michniewicz Poland Coach to online casino malaysia minimum deposit rm10:
There there isn't any difference in our first and second game against Belgium since the result is the same. We were not able to score any points. Of course we did not play the same way tonight. After playing the game we realized that we're not allowed to play in a team game in the face of Belgium.
Karol Swiderski Poland striker:
We have had some chances to win in the last few minutes of the match and I am disappointed that we didn't turn them into goals. We are disappointed that we didn't win, as we've been able to go for a long time without losing in the home stadium. We are not worried -There is plenty of time to go until we go to the World Cup finals and I believe we'll be prepared.
Jakub Kiwior Poland player:
I am glad that I had another chance, just like in the game against the Netherlands. I did a good job and I am sure I'll have more chances. It's unfortunate that we didn't score in the final minutes despite having many chances during the final minutes. A point could have been a great reward for us.
Roberto Martinez, Belgium coach:
I am very satisfied with this performance. We controlled itand we didn't let Poland to get numerous opportunities. We were in good position to control the ball. I am disappointed that we didn't score an additional goal, which would have put the game to bed earlier. But I am satisfied with the way we played as defenders.
Timothy Castagne, Belgium defender:
For sure, we need to be more focused since in the closing minutes, we are in danger. If we let opponents pressure us and press us more, we risk being a danger. It was important to win, and we achieved this. The overall outcome of these four games isn't completely satisfying. Sometimes, we lose points easily.
Thorgan Hazard, Belgium midfielder:
We controlled the game in the first half, and created certain opportunities and even scored. However, in the closing minutes we had to concede. We are grateful that Simon [Mignolet] aided in securing the win. Maintaining a clean sheet was a must.