Poland's Injury Crisis Ahead of Euro 2024
The Polish national team is facing a challenging predicament just days before Euro 2024 kicks off. In a recent friendly match against Turkey, Poland won 2-1 but suffered significant losses, with key players Robert Lewandowski and Karol Swiderski exiting the field due to injuries.
Captain and top scorer Robert Lewandowski had to leave the pitch in the 33rd minute after feeling pain in his right knee. This injury is particularly disheartening as the FC Barcelona star is set to play his last major international competition at the age of 35. Earlier in the match, Karol Swiderski also left the field in the 12th minute after scoring the first goal for Poland. Swiderski, who currently plays for Hellas Verona, injured his right ankle during his goal celebration and had to have his ankle strapped and splinted on the sideline.
The Impact on Poland's Euro 2024 Campaign
The loss of these two pivotal players is a severe blow, coming on the heels of another significant injury. Last Friday, during the first preparatory match against Ukraine, Poland's striker Arkadiusz Milik also sustained an injury. Milik, a key player for Juventus Turin, underwent microsurgery on his left meniscus shortly after the match. According to a statement from Juventus, his rehabilitation process began the following Tuesday, but no specific timeline for his return to competitive action has been provided.
Poland is set to compete in Group D of the Euro 2024, where they will face France, the Netherlands, and Austria. Their opening match against the Netherlands is scheduled for June 16, with a crucial game against France on June 25. The team’s performance in these matches will be closely watched, especially with their key players sidelined due to injuries.
- The Polish national team will need to reassess its strategy moving forward. The depth of their squad will be tested as they seek to fill the void left by Lewandowski, Swiderski, and Milik.
- Coach Michał Probierz may have to rely more heavily on less experienced players or consider altering the team's formations and tactics to adapt to these significant absences.
