Poland will take on Austria in their UEFA Euro 2024 group-stage clash at the Olympiastadion Berlin on Friday. Both teams suffered defeats in their campaign openers, with Poland losing 2-1 to the Netherlands and Austria suffering a narrow 1-0 loss to France.
Match Context
The two losing teams from matchday one in Group D, Poland and Austria, are set to clash in a crucial encounter. Securing three full points in this game is essential as a draw likely won’t do much for either team’s hopes of advancing to the knockout rounds. However, a draw might still be enough if other results go their way in matchday three.
Despite their respective losses, both teams can take some positives from their performances. Austria was highly competitive against France, with more possession (52%) and more passes, especially in the final third. An own goal by Maximilian Wober near the end of the first half was the only thing that separated them from the 2018 FIFA World Cup champions. Austria has been impressive under Ralph Rangnick, scoring in 17 of their last 18 games.
Poland, on the other hand, took an early lead against the Netherlands thanks to Adam Buksa’s goal in the 16th minute following a brilliant corner kick from Piotr Zieliński. However, Cody Gakpo equalized for the Netherlands in the 29th minute, and substitute Wout Weghorst scored the winning goal in the 83rd minute. Poland struggled without their talismanic striker Robert Lewandowski, but latest reports suggest he could be back in time for Friday’s matchup, providing a significant boost for Poland.
Poland vs Austria: Head-to-Head and Key Numbers
- The two teams have crossed paths 11 times in all competitions. Poland has the upper hand with six wins, while Austria has won three times. Two meetings ended in draws.
- They have met once in the European Championship before, with their group stage meeting in the 2008 edition ending in a 1-1 draw.
- Poland is unbeaten in their last five meetings against Austria, recording three wins and keeping two clean sheets.
- Poland is winless in their last five games in the European Championships, suffering four losses, one of which came on penalties. They have not kept a clean sheet in their last six games in the competition.
- Austria has seen conclusive results in their last six games in the European Championships, with four losses and two wins.
Poland vs Austria Predictions
Poland conceded a late goal in their campaign opener against the Netherlands and will be desperate to bounce back with a win here. They face France in their final group-stage game next week, making it crucial for them to secure a victory in this match. Robert Lewandowski is back in full training and is expected to start, which will likely bolster Poland’s attacking options. Kacper Urbański might be dropped to the bench to make way for Lewandowski.
Austria, despite their narrow defeat to France, put up a strong fight. Ralf Rangnick is expected to stick with a similar starting XI from that match. Marko Arnautović might get the nod to start. Austria has struggled in the European Championships historically, with just two wins and no victories in their last five meetings against Poland. However, their recent form under Rangnick suggests they could pose a significant challenge.
Best Bet
Combining Austria to win with under 4.5 goals offers a promising bet at +120 odds. Austria’s performance against France and Poland’s recent struggles indicate a favorable outcome for the Austrians in a low-scoring match.
Betting Tips
- Result – Poland to win
- Goals – Over/Under 2.5 Goals – Over 2.5 goals
- First Half Goal – At least one goal to be scored in the first half – Yes
- Player Performance – Robert Lewandowski to score or assist any time – Yes
Conclusion
The Poland vs Austria match is shaping up to be a critical encounter for both teams in their quest to advance to the knockout stages of EURO 2024. With Poland looking to bounce back after a late loss to the Netherlands and Austria aiming to build on a strong performance against France, this match promises to deliver intense competition. Poland’s historical advantage and the return of Robert Lewandowski give them a slight edge, but Austria’s recent form cannot be overlooked.
Fans and bettors alike will be keenly watching this clash, as the outcome could significantly impact the progression of both teams in the tournament. For the best value, consider betting on a Poland win, with over 2.5 goals, a first-half goal, and a strong performance from Lewandowski.
Poland vs Austria Predictions: Expect a fiercely contested match with Poland edging out Austria in a narrow 2-1 victory.