Spain vs Poland: Spaniards can unleash frustrations on helpless Poles

Seb Sternik
19 June 2021

Poland's Robert Lewandowski had a frustrating game

After failing to break down Sweden in their Euro 2020 opener, Spain turn their attention to Poland in a crucial Group E encounter.

When: Saturday, June 19, 20:00 BST

How to watch: BBC

Follow this game live via our score centre

Best Bets

Spain -1 Handicap at 21/20

Over 3.5 goals at 9/4

Alvaro Morata to score anytime at 10/11

Spain seemed to be in full control against Sweden but as minutes ticked by, the scoreline stayed the same.

The 0-0 draw leaves the Spaniards with one point which means a win over Poland is necessary if they are to stay in contention for a Last 16 spot.

For a fantastic 100% bonus offer for new customers, visit Planet Sport Bet.

Planet Sport Bet 100 per cent bonus new customers offer

Looking at their previous encounters against the Poles, getting a win here would seem like a formality.

From their ten games against Poland, Spain has accumulated eight victories. Their only defeat came in 1980 and their only draw in 1994.

Robert Lewandowski was supposed to be Poland's biggest threat in this competition. However, his quiet display against Slovakia has called into question his abilities for the national side.

Last Three Matches

Spain 6-0 Poland (Friendly - June 8, 2010)

Before jetting off for the 2010 World Cup, Spain hosted Poland in a pre-tournament friendly.

The Spaniards went ahead in the 12th minute after Grzegorz Wojtkowiak put the ball into his own net. David Silva added a second just two minutes later.

In the second-half, things went from bad to worse for the Poles. Xabi Alonso, Cesc Fabregas, Fernando Torres and Pedro all stamped their names onto the scoresheet to sign off a successful outing.

Spain 3-0 Poland (Friendly - January 26, 2000)

The first meeting between the two nations in the 21st century ended in a comprehensive victory for the Spaniards.

Raul opened the scoring in the 15th minute before a double from Urzaiz sealed an impressive win.

Poland 1-2 Spain (Friendly - August 18, 1999)

When the two sides last met in Poland, Spain were given a far tougher test.

Tomasz Hajto opened the scoring in the seventh minute as Poland held on to their lead at half-time.

Spain came back strong in the second-half and ultimately sealed the win with goals from Morientes and Pedro Munitis.

Last ten head-to-heads

Spain wins: 8

Draws: 1

Poland wins: 1

Spain goals: 27

Poland goals: 8

Poland lack quality to threaten

Many Poland fans were left frustrated following Robert Lewandowski's quiet display against Slovakia.

But there is a reason why the Bayern Munich star is not as prolific as he is in the Bundesliga.

Poland manager, Paulo Sousa

When playing for the Bavarians, Lewandowski is surrounded by world-class players, serving him up chance after chance. Poland, on the other hand, doesn't have that calibre of talent.

With a striker like Lewandowski, it's no surprise there was hype about this team before the start of the tournament. Now would be a good time for the Poles to adjust their expectations.

Spain ready to unleash frustrations

Sweden were able to restrict the Spaniards and earn a 0-0 draw. Poland, on the other hand, will struggle to do the same considering their weaknesses at the back.