Euro 2016 Recap: Poland Vs Northern Ireland

Fulltime: Poland 1-0 Northern Ireland

Milik (POL) 51'

Before this Euro 2016 match even started, I already came up with scenarios how this would be played. Poland versus Northern Ireland was easy to read. It wasn't difficult to predict that one side would surely play cautiously.

A Predictable Start

At the early going, Northern Ireland held low and were more than happy to accommodate the Polish onslaught. Bartosz Kapustka was most active, and had shots on goal. Northern Ireland tried to counter at times, but Kyle Lafferty always got thwarted. Their defense was very compact; oftentimes converting to a five-man fence. Jonny Evans made sure everybody provided cover, while shadowing the dangerous Robert Lewandowski. That was the predictable story of the 1st half.

A Rude Change In The Script

The next chapter started from where it ended in the previous half. No real shame for Nor Iron as they frustrated their tormentors.

But, at the 51st minute, Jakub Blaszczykowski slotted a pass that was instinctively converted to a goal by Arkadiusz Milik. The turn of events obviously triggered a switch in strategy. They pushed men forward in search for an equalizer. But the opposition decided to give them a dose of their own medicine by playing close defense.  A carefully crafted freekick just above the box almost worked like a dream. But, captain Steven Davis fell short and failed to make contact with the ball.

Poland imposed clear dominance in the match, and were worthy winners. No surprises here.

The Bad Tackle

Defensively, Northern Ireland looked solid. They frustrated the potent offense of Poland for almost an hour before conceding the decisive goal. But, defense alone won't bring them to the next round. If they must counter, they should forge a credible strategy that would pierce through defenses. Lafferty won't be able to do thing alone. And, I still can't figure out that decision on Manchester United defender, Paddy McNair.

Poland performed according to script. They were very methodical. Performing brilliantly for them was Sevilla player, Grzegorz Krychowiak. Lewandowski is obviously a marked man. Milik and Kapustka provided valuable support for their captain. Still, there is much work to be done if they are to challenge for the top honors.