Gumny’s Poland qualify for last 16 in dramatic fashion
Gumny's Poland through after nervy night in Group C
First Team
01.12.2022, 09:58
Despite their 2-0 defeat to Argentina on Wednesday evening, Robert Gumny’s Poland scraped through to the last 16 of the World Cup. The loss left the White-Reds second in Group C, which was enough to secure their passage into the next round.
It was nervy until the very last second for Poland in their final group stage match against Argentina. The Bronze medalists of 1974 were set up defensively from the first whistle as they looked to keep the two-time winners at bay. Argentina, however, dominated throughout and came away comfortable winners after goals from Alexis Mac Allister (46’) and Julián Álvarez (67’). Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny, who made some fine stops throughout the contest, also denied Lionel Messi from the penalty spot shortly before half time (39’).
Meanwhile in the other game in Group C, Mexico were leading Saudi Arabia 2-0 and this left Poland and Mexico on the same points, the same goal difference and the same goals scored. This meant that Poland were set to progress due to their superior fair play record, namely the fact that they had picked up fewer yellow cards in the tournament. Late in stoppage time, however, Saudi Arabia pulled a goal back to make it 2-1, which put Poland through the last 16 for the first time In 36 years.
Poland to face France, Switzerland in good shape
Despite their defeat, there were scenes of Polish joy after the final whistle at Stadium 974. Robert Gumny, however, is still waiting for his first World Cup appearance. Poland are now set to face the defending champions France on Sunday 4th December (16:00 CET), whilst Argentina are to come up against Australia on Saturday 3rd December (20:00 CET).
Ruben Vargas’ Switzerland are also on the verge of progressing to the knockout stages. The Swiss are currently sat in second on three points, ahead of Cameroon and Serbia who are both sat on one. The final matches in Group G will take place on Friday 2nd December (20:00 CET). Carlos Gruezo’s Ecuador were knocked out of the tournament on Tuesday.
