Euro 2024: Austria and Poland set for critical Group D showdown

Austria and Poland, both coming off opening matchday defeats in Group D, are gearing up for a crucial encounter that could define their tournament fate.

With their French and Dutch counterparts seen as the frontrunners in the group, a win is vital for either side to enhance their chances of advancing to the knockout stages.

The opportunity to be one of the four best third-placed finishers also adds an extra layer of importance to this match.

Poland's recent 2-1 loss to the Netherlands marked Michał Probierz’s first defeat as head coach (W6, D2).

Despite the disappointment, there were encouraging signs, including an early goal from Adam Buksa, who stepped in for the injured Robert Lewandowski.

Probierz indicated in his post-match comments that Lewandowski, 35, might be ready to return for this pivotal game, which would significantly boost Poland's attacking prowess.

Under Ralf Rangnick, Austria have thrived with a high-pressing style, and they narrowly lost 1-0 to world number #2 France due to an unfortunate own goal.

This performance, however, should give Austria confidence as they head into matches against less formidable opponents.

Rangnick emphasised the team's solid record, with only two losses to France and Belgium in their last 17 games (W12, D3) since the end of the previous UEFA Nations League.

Austria's seven-game winning streak as pre-match favourites, dating back to November 2022, also sets high expectations for their performance as they aim to match or surpass their Round of 16 appearance in Euro 2020.

Karol Swiderski of Poland is one to watch, especially as he has scored the first goal in seven of his last eight matches for the national team.

For Austria, striker Michael Gregoritsch is crucial, having netted goals in three of Austria’s six qualification victories for this tournament.

Austria have an impressive record when Gregoritsch scores, never having lost in those matches (W10, D3).

Looking at recent performances, five of Austria’s last seven European Championship games (including qualifiers) have featured under 2.5 total goals, indicating a likely tight and competitive match.