Debutants eager to make an impression

When Poland produced their best performance of the most recent World Cup against hosts Germany, they showed glimpses of the form that had led their ardent fans to expect so much. Having lost the opening game 2-0 to Ecuador, the Poles had to at least get a point from their encounter with Germany to hold any hope of progressing to the next round. In the end, Germany broke them down in the dying stages of the game to win 1-0, and a team that had promised so much was sent home packing.

At least the Polish fans can take solace in the fact that their country has qualified for their first European Championship. Dutch coach Leo Beenhakker has transformed this Poland side from an erratic bunch to a formidable side. During qualification, Poland defeated Portugal 2-1, which was an emphatic announcement of intent: Poland are definitely not going to Euro2008 to make up the numbers.

Beenhakker must, however, ensure that his team heed the lessons of World Cup 2006 well. Poland played their opening game of that tournament with too much arrogance, and Ecuador duly punished them. That their first game is against Germany, with whom they have both a turbulent history and cultural ties, will ensure they come out focused and raring to go.

How Poland qualified

Poland looked in real danger of missing out on Euro2008 until their six-match unbeaten run, which left even Portugal in its wake. In the end they finished on top of quite a tough group, which, apart from Portugal, contained Serbia and Montenegro, Finland, and Belgium.

How Poland play

Poland play a 4-4-2 system in which Artur Boruc is the outstanding goalkeeper. The thirty-four-year-old Jacek Bak is the mainstay in defence, while Rados?aw Sobolewski and Jakub Blaszczykowski are the regulars in midfield. Celtic striker Maciej Zurawski is an undisputed choice in attack, though Euzebiusz Smolarek was far more impressive during qualification.

About the coach

The sixty-five year old Beenhakker is one of the most successful coaches in the sport. He had stints with Ajax and Real Madrid at club level, and his Trinidad and Tobago team was the thorn in both Sweden’s and England’s side during the last World Cup. Beenhakker is renowned for making his teams play to their full potential—and, as Trinidad and Tobago will testify, sometimes even beyond.

Key players

Artur Boruc - The 28-year-old is a phenomenal shot-stopper. Tall and quick, Boruc commands his area with aplomb. It is no wonder that top European clubs have inquired about his services.

Maciej Zurawski - Though he only scored one goal in thirteen appearances during the qualifiers, Zurawski remains a regular fixture for Poland. With a dismal showing at World Cup 2006 (he did not score), Zurawski will have maybe a final chance to prove his mettle.

Star player

Euzebiusz Smolarek – Smolarek notched up nine goals in the qualifying campaign. The striker, who can also play as an attacking midfielder, will be Beenhakker’s most potent weapon in attack.

Verdict

If Poland can get a point from their opening game against Germany, they could pip Croatia to second spot in the group. However, that seems a tall order, and a first round exit looms for the Poles.