As we approach the final matchday in Group D, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With the top three teams separated by just a single point, the race to advance is as tight as ever. France, sitting on four points, finds themselves in a favorable position where a draw would secure a top-two finish. However, with finishing top potentially offering an easier path through the knockout stages, Les Bleus will rue their missed opportunity to beat their closest rivals, the Netherlands, last Friday night (0-0 draw).
France’s Challenge: Breaking the Final Matchday Curse
Despite being in a good position to advance, France has a daunting task ahead. Historically, they have struggled in their final group-stage matches at major tournaments, failing to win any of their last eight (D4, L4). This unfortunate trend means that to top the group, France must either better the Netherlands’ result or score against Austria.
One key player who will be crucial to France’s hopes is N’Golo Kanté. Having already won two UEFA Man of the Match awards in this tournament, Kanté has now made more major tournament appearances without losing than any other European player (W12, D5). His presence and performance will be pivotal in breaking France’s final matchday curse.
Poland: Playing for Pride
For Poland, the final matchday serves as a consolation prize, as they are already eliminated from the competition. Their journey has been marred by second-half collapses, with both of their defeats in Group D decided by goals after the hour mark. The absence of game time for their record appearance holder and goalscorer, Robert Lewandowski, has also significantly impacted their performance.
The outlook for Poland is bleak. They have lost three of their last four group stage finales at the European Championships, all in tournaments where they exited at this stage. Additionally, Poland has not beaten France since 1982 (D4, L4), making it hard to find sources of inspiration. Lewandowski remains a standout, being the only player to score a head-to-head goal for Poland since the turn of the century. However, none of his four goalscoring Euro appearances have ended in victory (D2, L2).
Players to Watch
N’Golo Kanté (France)
Kanté has been a standout performer for France, earning two UEFA Man of the Match awards. His record-breaking unbeaten run in major tournament appearances (W12, D5) makes him a crucial player for France as they seek to top Group D.
Robert Lewandowski (Poland)
Despite Poland’s struggles, Lewandowski remains their most influential player. Although his goals have not led to victories at the Euros, his ability to find the net against top opposition will be key if Poland hopes to end their tournament on a high note.
Hot Stat
Poland has scored exactly once in seven of their last eight games at the Euro finals. This statistic highlights their consistent but limited offensive output, which has been insufficient to secure victories.
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