Wasilewski hopes to cause upset

0 Comments

16 October 2012-PA Sport

Captain Marcin Wasilewski has challenged Poland to use Tuesday evening's (Wednesday morning AEDT) 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier with England as a 'breakthrough match' after his country's disappointing performance as EURO 2012 co-host.

Keown outlines admiration for Cole

Jagielka keen to lead defence

Bertrand calls it a day on Twitter

Jenkinson trains with England

Hart backs young players to cope

Poland beats South Africa

Wasilewski admits the Poland players could not be more motivated for the Group H clash in Warsaw.

Poland will be striving to improve on a record of only one win in 17 matches against England and regain pride after failing to qualify from its group during EURO 2012.

Wasilewski said: "Can this game make up for Euros? I think such a match is very much needed, especially against such an opponent as England.

"We are all aware of the high quality of the opponent but a few years ago we had a similar meeting with Portugal when everyone thought we would lose.

"We won and after that our faith grew and the faith of our fans increased tremendously and helped us advance into the European championship finals.

"I also hope this will also be a breakthrough match for Poland."

Wasilewski senses the determination of coach Waldemar Fornalik's squad to cause an upset.

He said: "We are all extremely motivated. You will be able to see it tomorrow on the pitch.

"I do not have a speech prepared. When I look at the other guys, I see they are so highly motivated.

"I don't think they need any extra motivation from me. In fact, it might be to the contrary.

"Maybe I should try and stifle this enthusiasm."

Wasilewski knows that Poland has to try and find a way to contain Wayne Rooney, who became England's fifth highest scorer with 31 goals after his double in last week's 5-0 win over San Marino.

He said: "Wayne Rooney is a wonderful striker. He has proved it in every match in the Premier League.

"World class defenders have difficulty controlling it so it is going to be difficult but we will wait and see."

Fornalik brushed aside concerns over the quality of the pitch in the National Stadium.

He said: "There may be situations quite unpredictable. The ball can perhaps bounce off the surface a bit differently.

"But the conditions will be identical for both teams and something they will have to cope with.

"The grass is the way it is and the organisers will do all they can to make sure the pitch is at the best quality possible."