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Austria’s hopes of reaching the last 16 at Euro 2024 were significantly boosted with a dramatic 3-1 victory over Poland, who became the first team to be eliminated from the tournament. This result, coupled with France’s draw against the Netherlands later on Friday, ensured Poland would finish bottom of Group D regardless of their final match outcome.
Both teams entered the Berlin showdown having lost their opening matches, aware that another defeat could end their tournament aspirations. The atmosphere at the Olympiastadion was electric, with fans on both sides creating a cacophony that matched the frenetic pace on the pitch.
Austria struck first when Gernot Trauner headed home a Phillipp Mwene cross at the near post. Poland, initially struggling to get out of their half, found their footing and equalized in the 30th minute. Jan Bednarek’s blocked shot fell to Krzysztof Piatek, who fired low into the net.
Clear chances were scarce following the equalizer, even with Poland’s star striker Robert Lewandowski coming off the bench in the second half. As the game wore on, Austria found the inspiration needed to secure victory.
Marko Arnautovic’s clever dummy allowed Christoph Baumgartner the space to slot past Wojciech Szczesny from the edge of the area. Austria sealed the win a few minutes later when Marcel Sabitzer, breaking free, was brought down by Szczesny, allowing Arnautovic to convert the resulting penalty.
Arnautovic’s goal triggered jubilant celebrations among Austrian fans, revitalized by their team’s comeback. Austria, now with renewed hope, will face the Netherlands in Dortmund on Tuesday with a chance to progress further.
Conversely, Poland’s elimination was confirmed with the Netherlands’ failure to beat France. Despite Lewandowski’s introduction in the final 30 minutes, he could not find an opportunity to add to his international goal tally. Poland, now only playing for pride, will face France in their final match.
Austria’s head coach, Ralf Rangnick, described the victory as the “most important match” since his tenure began in April 2022. Despite their loss to France, Austria’s strong form had seen them tipped as potential dark horses of the tournament. Baumgartner, named player of the match, emphasized the team’s self-imposed pressure and their quality, which they displayed against Poland.
Poland’s head coach, Michal Probierz, addressed questions about Lewandowski’s condition, confirming the striker’s fitness despite his delayed introduction. Probierz lamented the missed opportunities to break through Austria’s defense and expressed disappointment over not scoring the decisive goal.
