‘It’s simple, we’re playing for our lives’: Wojciech Szczesny insists Poland MUST win their make-or-break final game against Sweden or face another group-stage exit at a major tournament
Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny insists the make-or-break nature of Wednesday evening’s final group game against Sweden has simplified their approach.
With just one point in Group E, the Poles have to win if they are to reach the knockout stage.
Three years ago at the World Cup in Russia, Poland were the first European team eliminated after losing their opening two matches but the point they secured against Spain in their previous game at Euro 2020 has given them a lifeline.
Wojciech Szczesny insists Poland are playing for their lives against Sweden on Wednesday
Szczesny, 31, feels the spirit within the squad has improved.
‘After our first match at the 2018 World Cup, when we still had two matches ahead of us and could qualify from the group, there was no spirit in the team,’ he said.
‘Here, after the first match, even though we’d put ourselves in a very difficult position, you could tell we had faith and the will to qualify.
‘Mentally, it is pretty easy when you know you have to win the match. No need to speculate.
With just one point in Group E, the Poles have to win if they are to reach the knockout stage
‘So the mental approach to such a game is much simpler because you don’t leave any energy for the last few minutes or the next match. You play for your life, and I think that can help us.’
Poland will assess injuries of defender Jan Bednarek and midfielder Jakub Moder ahead of the game.
TV: Sweden v Poland kick-off 5pm, LIVE on ITV4.