The White and Reds’ Curse

Poland’s national team made its first appearance at a World Cup in the 21st century on the pitches of South Korea and Japan. It must be admitted, however, that the tournament ended in considerable disappointment, as Jerzy Engel’s players did not even advance from the group. After excellent qualifying matches, Poland went to the tournament with considerably greater expectations than it has now. Thus, the defeat in the very first match against the tournament hosts, South Korea, was a huge disappointment.

The 2006 tournament also ended in a similar fashion. Under the leadership of Paweł Janas, Poland lost its opening match to Ecuador. The White and Reds later failed to defeat the host nation, Germany, leaving them with only a match for honor.

Unfortunately, a similar scenario also unfolded at the most recent World Cup, held on the pitches of Russia. Poland sensationally lost its first match to Senegal, and the tournament was practically over. The clash with Colombia proved to be the final nail in our coffin. As is their custom, the Poles won their final group match at the World Cup, but it was merely a match for pride.

The Most Important News from Bolesławiec

Michniewicz’s Plan?

After the most recent friendly, Grzegorz Krychowiak pointed out that in recent years Poland’s national team had tried to play football and demonstrate an appropriate style of play, but this had not translated into results. Perhaps Czesław Michniewicz’s plan will be thorough tactical preparation and solid defensive play, which could lead to success. Reaching the knockout stage would undoubtedly be such a success. Polish bookmakers currently indicate that Argentina and Mexico have greater chances of advancing from the group than our team. Once again, the opening match will probably be decisive for our national team, as bookmakers’ odds suggest. If we lose the first match yet again, our chances of qualifying will probably become merely mathematical.

The Poles are going to Qatar with considerable hopes, but objectively it must be taken into account that bookmakers rate Mexico and Argentina’s national teams’ chances higher. Unlike at previous tournaments, it must be admitted that the expectations surrounding Poland’s national team are considerably lower. This may be good news for the players themselves, who will be able to focus solely on themselves, knowing that expectations at home are not as enormous as before. You can check the sports betting markets for this tournament at PZBuk.

Betting with bookmakers carries the risk of addiction. Remember that it must not become a way of life. In Poland, using the services of illegal bookmakers is prohibited; you may play only with operators licensed by the Ministry of Finance.

Cherry Online Polska Sp. z o.o., operating under the name PZBuk: Ministry of Finance permit dated 28 June 2018, no. PS4.6831.26.2017.

Text author: Mateusz Nowak – Senior Project Manager at Zagranie.com, a graduate of sports journalism and sports management at UAM and a football fan! On Twitter – @Mati_N95