After a defeat to Argentina, Poland advance to the Round of 16 of the World Cup for the first time since 1986. They didn't do it with ease as it went down to the wire only advancing thanks to a late Saudi Arabia goal. Poland themselves struggled against Lionel Messi's Argentina, recording no shots on target.
After a solid first half from the Poland defence and a Wojciech Szczesny penalty save against Messi, Poland couldn't keep their defence sealed with an Alexis Mac Allister goal quick after half-time. Szczesny is the third goalie in World Cup history to have saved two penalties in one single World Cup tournament. Man City's Julian Alvarez scored the second which left Poland hanging on as they were looking to advance on goal difference with other results going in their hand.
With 90 minutes up, all eyes turned to Mexico Vs Saudi Arabia. A Mexico goal would have broken Poland hearts and sent them packing. But against the run of play Saudi Arabias main man Al-Dawsari scored to send Poland through.
Speaking to Poland fan, Laura Laga on the match she told us the emotions she went through. "The game was stressful considering the situation, but I feel the players gave everything they could of to keep our hopes alive."
Poland will now play reigning champions France in the Round of 16. Laura gave us more of her thoughts.
"I personally think Poland can progress further, France are a tough side but nothing we can't handle."
Poland find themselves in a rare spot in the Round of 16 and Laura says: "This is our countries dream to be where we are," she continues by saying "The players will be motivated by the position they're in and they will have Poland fans supporting them through the journey."
Poland have only conceded to Argentina this tournament and Laura Laga wasn't hesitant to express her emotions about goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, "To me that penalty save against Messi shows why he is the best goalie in the world," she added "Not even just in the Argentina game but without Szczesny our tournament would look different."
If Poland progress further they will be playing England or Senegal in the Quarterfinals. I asked Lauras opinion on the possibility of facing England.
"I will be excited to play England because living here for over 10 years has made me respect and love the England team a lot."
She added "But of course I would love Poland to win so this match would be full of mixed emotions."
Poland play France on Sunday looking to upset Les Bleus, but with a star studded side it'll be hard for Poland to contain. I'd say this will be a underrated tie and one to look out for.
By Baily Shorter
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