Polish Team Robbed in Ireland: World Cup Dreams Fade
The Poland women’s national side continues to show progress under coach Nina Patalon. Still, the team has yet to reach a World Cup finals.
Background
Patalon has raised the squad’s level in recent seasons. Ewa Pajor has been the side’s most influential player and captain.
The expanded women’s World Cup will feature 32 teams from six confederations. The tournament is scheduled to start in late June and finish about a month later.
Group and stakes
Poland were drawn with the Netherlands, France and Ireland in qualifying. After three matches the team had collected only two points.
That tally left Poland bottom of the group. The away game in Ireland became a must-win fixture to keep hopes alive.
Match summary
Poland began the match positively and looked competitive early on. Pajor produced an early chance that flew off target.
Ireland also threatened and hit the crossbar before halftime. In the 41st minute Marissa Shev slid a close-range finish into the net from a pass across the box.
The hosts led 1-0 at the break. The second half opened at a slower pace and substitutions followed.
Turning points and controversies
Weronika Zawistowska entered as a substitute and soon went down in the penalty area. In the 68th minute she appeared to be kicked, yet the referee did not award a penalty.
Replays suggested a foul, leaving Poland and many observers frustrated. Ireland later struck the crossbar on a quick counter.
In the 89th minute Pajor had a clear chance but shot straight at the goalkeeper. That proved to be Poland’s final opportunity.
Consequences and outlook
Ireland won 1-0, a result that ended Poland’s realistic bid to top the group. The Polish team felt robbed in Ireland as World Cup hopes faded.
Poland must now regroup and seek points in remaining fixtures. Qualification will require higher consistency and clinical finishing.
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