Poland's Robert Lewandowski greets supporters ahead the international friendly soccer match between Poland and Ukraine at the National stadium in Warsaw, Poland, on June 7, 2024. Poland will have to play its opening game at the European Championship against the Netherlands on Sunday June 16, 2024 without its striker Robert Lewandowski who will miss it out due to a muscle injury. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski, File)
Poland's star striker, Robert Lewandowski, will miss the opening match of the European Championship against the Netherlands due to injury. The team doctor, Jacek Jaroszewski, confirmed that Lewandowski sustained a torn biceps femoris muscle during a warm-up session ahead of the match against Turkey in Warsaw. This unfortunate incident occurred on Monday, where Poland emerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline. Lewandowski, who serves as Poland's captain, had to be replaced in the 32nd minute of the game due to a right leg injury.
Efforts are underway to facilitate Lewandowski's return for the second match against Austria, as stated in the official statement released by the team. Following the clash with the Netherlands, Poland is set to face Austria on June 21, followed by a match against France four days later, both scheduled to take place in Germany.
Lewandowski's absence poses a significant setback for Poland, considering his pivotal role as the country's all-time leading goal-scorer with an impressive tally of 82 goals from 150 games. The injury compounds Poland's challenges, particularly in light of another key player's setback. Arkadiusz Milik, who was expected to partner with Lewandowski upfront for the Euros, suffered a left knee injury during a friendly match against Ukraine on Friday. Consequently, Milik underwent successful knee surgery upon his return to Juventus on Monday.
Additionally, Paweł Dawidowicz and Karol Świderski, who also sustained injuries during the match against Turkey, are anticipated to resume full training within three to four days. Despite these setbacks, Poland remains determined to navigate through the challenges and deliver commendable performances in the upcoming matches.
