On Saturday afternoon, Poland and Saudi Arabia go head-to-head in Group C of the World Cup as both teams look for a potentially pivotal win.
Poland form guideCzeslaw Michniewicz’s team kicked off their World Cup campaign with a goalless draw against Mexico. However, star striker Robert Lewandowski saw a penalty kick saved by Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa. The miss means that the Barcelona forward has still not scored at a World Cup.
The draw against Mexico means that this game has taken on bigger importance for Poland, as they face Argentina in their group match.
Poland head into this game unbeaten in three matches, having kept three straight clean sheets too, so they are difficult to break down. However, Poland’s recent record at the World Cup, of winning just two of their last seven games in the competition, is not great.
Saudi ArabiaThe Green Falcons pulled off one of the biggest-ever World Cup shocks in their opening game by beating Argentina 2-1. The victory was massive, as it means that Saudi Arabia has a big chance to book their place in the knockout stages of the World Cup for only the second time.
The win in the first game means that Saudi Arabia don’t necessarily have to win this game to make it through to the knockout stages. However, they will fancy their chances of recording just their fifth-ever victory at the World Cup.
Latest team newsPoland has a fully fit squad to choose from for this game. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia will be without defender Yasir Al Shahrani, who collided with his own goalkeeper during the win over Argentina and sustained a broken jaw. Midfielder Salman Al Faraj also went off injured during the win last time out and is a doubt for this clash.
What am I backing?This could be a tight encounter, as Saudi Arabia don’t need to win the game, but Poland will feel that they need the victory more. I am backing under 2.5 goals and a relatively close encounter.
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