Watch Poland vs Austria full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 16:00 (GMT) on 21st June 2024
The referee for this match is H. Meler
Game played at Olympiastadion Berlin
This is a match in Europe – UEFA European Championship, Group D, Season 2024
Austria Secures First Victory at Euro 2024 with 3-1 Win Over Poland
Ralf Rangnick’s Austria achieved their first victory at UEFA Euro 2024, overcoming Group D rivals Poland 3-1 in Berlin. This victory extends Austria’s impressive run to eight unbeaten outings from their last nine matches.
First Half: Early Dominance and Equalizer
Austria, coming off a gallant yet unfortunate defeat to France, entered the match knowing that a win was essential for their progression aspirations. The Austrians began strongly, showcasing their early dominance. They were rewarded with the opening goal when Gernot Trauner’s glancing header, picked out by Phil Mwene, sailed into the top corner of the Polish net, giving Austria a deserved lead.
However, Austria’s lead was short-lived. Poland, applying sustained pressure, managed to equalize midway through the first half. Krzysztof Piątek capitalized on a bouncing ball inside the penalty area to score, a familiar venue for Piątek who had previously netted 13 times at the Olympiastadion for Hertha Berlin.
Second Half: Austria Reclaims Control
Stunned by Poland’s equalizer, Austria struggled to find their rhythm early in the second half. Despite this, the quality within their ranks allowed them to regain the lead just after the hour mark. Christoph Baumgartner finished a well-executed team move by deceiving goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny and sweeping the ball into the far corner.
Austria sealed the victory ten minutes from time. A surging run by Marcel Sabitzer tempted Szczęsny into a foul, leading referee Halil Umut Meler to award a penalty. Marko Arnautović confidently converted the spot kick, securing the three points for Austria and significantly boosting their chances of progression.
Key Highlights
- Gernot Trauner’s Header: An early goal that set the tone for Austria’s performance.
- Krzysztof Piątek’s Equalizer: A well-taken goal that temporarily leveled the match for Poland.
- Christoph Baumgartner’s Finish: A crucial goal that restored Austria’s lead.
- Marko Arnautović’s Penalty: A composed finish that ensured Austria’s victory.
Implications
- Austria: This victory breathes new life into Austria’s campaign, enhancing their chances of advancing to the knockout stages.
- Poland: The loss significantly hampers Poland’s progression hopes, leaving them in a precarious position.
Austria’s ability to bounce back and secure a vital win showcases their resilience and quality under Ralf Rangnick’s guidance, setting the stage for a potentially successful tournament run.