Robert Lewandowski scored his first-ever World Cup goal today as Poland claimed a 2-0 victory over Saudi Arabia that leaves their Qatar 2022 Group C wide open.
The Barcelona striker pounced on an error by Saudi Arabia midfielder Abdelulelah Al Malki before slotting past goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais to seal the key win.
The 34-year-old, who has always been prolific at club level, thus ended a run of four World Cup games without scoring.
Piotr Zielinski had given Poland the lead in the 39th minute from Lewandowski’s cutback and they took it to the break, although Saudi Arabia had a big chance to equalise.
The Asians were awarded a penalty in stoppage time for Krystian Bielik’s foul on Saleh Al Shehri.
Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny kept out Feras Al Brikan’s effort from the spot before producing a fine save to prevent Mohammed Al Burayk from scoring from the rebound.
Saudi Arabia kept Poland pinned back with some fine attacking football in the second half, but they were unable to get the equaliser.
Saud Abdulhamid was denied by Sczcesny and Al Brikan screwed his effort over the bar as Herve Renard’s side continued to serve up attractive football, only lacking in end product.
Lewandowski then struck in the 82nd minute to end Saudi Arabia’s hopes of building on Tuesday’s sensational victory over Lionel Messi’s Argentina.
The win boosts Poland’s hopes of reaching the round of 16 for the first time since 1986, when they were beaten 4-0 by Brazil in the first knockout stage.
Poland play Argentina in their final Group C game on Wednesday, while Saudi Arabia battle Mexico at the same time.
