Poland – Russia 12.06.2012

Poland have to be feeling disappointed after missing a great opportunity to start the Euro 2012 with a win.

The co-hosts had high hopes before the start of the tournament and the game against Greece seemed to be going according to plan when Robert Lewandowski scored a go-ahead goal in the early stage of the game. But despite the fact their opponents had a man sent off before the half-time break, the Poles allowed the Greeks to get back into the game and if it hadn’t been for back-up keeper Przemyslaw Tyton, who saved Giorgios Karagounis’ penalty, Poland would have lost the game and virtually all chances to go through.

Russia on the other hand can go into this game in a relaxed manner following an impressive showing and a convincing 4-1 victory over Czech Republic. Although Dick Advocaat’s side had some problems in the opening exchanges, the early goal gave them a much needed boost and the Russians are now hot favourites to win Group A. Alan Dzagoev, who scored a brace against the Czech’s and Andrey Arshavin put on a decent performance and will be the ones to watch out for. Despite their opening round win, Russia cannot afford to relax just yet as Poland will be very motivated to make amends for the opening slip-up.
Expect to see an open game with plenty of chances on each side.