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EURO 2024 Sports News

Why Robert Lewandowski was Benched in the First-Half against Austria?

Robert Lewandowski, the all-time leading scorer for Poland, did not start Friday’s Euro 2024 Group D encounter at Berlin’s Olympiastadion against Austria.

Many were surprised by this choice, considering Lewandowski’s standing and track record. Michal Probierz, Poland’s coach, made some calculated decisions, but his recent injury was the main factor in this decision.

Lewandowski, a striker at FC Barcelona, was hurt in his thigh in Poland’s last warm-up before the tournament. He was unable to play in Poland’s first group match against the Netherlands due to this injury, and Poland lost 2-1.

Concerns about Lewandowski’s health and preparedness to play the entire game played a major role in the decision to bench him.

Instead of running the danger of making his injury worse, Poland’s medical staff and coach Probierz thought it was best to gradually get him back into action.

Poland suffered a major blow when Lewandowski, who has 82 goals for his nation, was out of the game. His ability in front of goal is unparalleled, and his very existence on the pitch usually lifts the spirits of his teammates.

Robert Lewandowski via Twitter/X

Lewandowski scored 26 goals in 49 games, despite Barcelona finishing the season without a trophy, highlighting his reliable play and value to whatever side he plays for.

Adam Buksa, who scored in the 2-1 loss to the Netherlands, was named in the starting lineup in Lewandowski’s place. He was assigned to the attacking tandem of Krzysztof Piatek and Poland.

Robert Lewandowski during Poland-Austria Game (Michael Kappeler/dpa)

Buksa and Piatek were started by coach Probierz in an effort to keep up a potent offensive line while giving Lewandowski more time to heal.

Ralf Rangnick, the coach of Austria, also altered his starting lineup a few times. He replaced Michael Gregoritsch as the lone striker with seasoned striker Marko Arnautovic.

Rangnick also made a change in his center-back lineup, inserting Gernot Trauner and Philipp Lienhart for Kevin Danso and Maximilian Woeber. Austria made these adjustments as part of their plan to bolster their offense and defense in an effort to win after losing to France 1-0 in their opening game.

Poland and Austria had both lost their opening games and were desperate for a victory. With Austria losing to France and Poland losing to the Netherlands, both sides’ chances of making it to the knockout stages depended on the outcome of this match. There was a great deal of strain, and each strategic choice had great consequences.

Lewandowski’s potential impact on the game did not diminish even after he was initially benched. It’s well knowledge that his ability to score goals may alter the course of a game.

Probierz probably left him off the field as a precaution, knowing that he might be added if the circumstances of the game called for him to be involved.

Robert Lewandowski’s recent injury and the necessity to carefully monitor his fitness played a factor in Poland’s deliberate choice to bench him for the pivotal Euro 2024 encounter against Austria.

Michal Probierz, the Polish coach, started Adam Buksa and Krzysztof Piatek in order to keep up a potent offensive line and give Lewandowski more time to heal.

Austria also altered their starting lineup significantly, underscoring the importance of the game for both sides. With Lewandowski prepared to contribute if necessary, Poland aimed to gain a crucial victory to maintain their tournament chances despite the absence of their star striker from the starting lineup.

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EURO 2024 Sports News

Euro 2024: Robert Lewandowski’s Return Strikes Terror into Austria Ahead of Key Match

As their pivotal encounter against Austria takes place on Friday, Polish supporters are ecstatic about the return of their favourite striker, Robert Lewandowski.

One of the greatest players in the world, Lewandowski, was out for the Group D opening because of a thigh injury. Although his absence was felt greatly, Poland is greatly enhanced by his return.

Against Turkey in the pre-tournament warm-up, Lewandowski suffered a thigh injury. He was not present for Poland’s first game, in which Adam Buksa gave them the lead.

Buksa made an effort, but Poland missed Lewandowski. Positive indications from his most recent workout, though, point to him starting against Austria.

Poland’s custodian, Wojciech Szczesny, highlighted Lewandowski’s influence. He’s the finest player Poland has ever had. His presence alters both our opponents’ and our own game.

It’s a different game when Robert is in the game.” Szczesny’s remarks demonstrate how Lewandowski motivates teammates and intimidates opponents.

Lewandowski was also praised by Michal Probierz, the manager of Poland, as “the world’s best.” Probierz understands the tactical benefit of having Lewandowski in good shape.

“Having the world’s best on the bench is different than having him play,” Probierz said.

This highlights Lewandowski’s contribution to the team’s success in addition to his scoring.

Poland’s hopes of making the tournament depend on the Austria game. Referring to it as “our mini-final,” Szczesny emphasised its significance.

Poland’s final game against France puts them in a difficult group. To maintain their hopes of making it to the knockout stage, they must win against Austria.

As he considered retiring, Szczesny stated that he was determined to go far. “I want to fight for bigger goals, and I believe this team can,” he stated.

Lewandowski took part in a 45-minute training session at the Olympiastadion on Thursday.

Probierz will evaluate Lewandowski’s performance before deciding whether or not to play him. For Polish supporters, the manager’s composed attitude and faith in his star player are encouraging indicators.

Lewandowski is absolutely essential to Poland’s plan. He is an essential component of their strategy because of his ability to score and create opportunities.

Even though players like Buksa have played well, everything changes with Lewandowski’s comeback. Poland is a far more formidable opponent because to his leadership and scoring prowess.

Lewandowski’s comeback is significant not only because of his physical presence but also because of the psychological lift he offers.

Szczesny emphasised the advantage of having more captains on the pitch. In crucial games like the one against Austria, Lewandowski’s leadership and expertise are important.

Poland’s objective is apparent as they get ready for their crucial match against Austria: win and advance to the next round. The squad is in a lot better position to succeed because Lewandowski is anticipated to return to the starting lineup.

The team, the manager, and the supporters can’t wait to see their favourite player back in action, prepared to change the game and guide Poland to victory.

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