FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
Poland national team coach Jan Urban has come under fire for his handling of the signing of 17-year-old talent Oskar Pietuszewski. Former Polish footballer Zbigniew Boniek has come to his defense in an interview with Sport.pl.
Poland will face Albania on March 26, in a crucial match for a place in the 2026 World Cup qualification play-off final. The list of players is expected to be announced after the conclusion of the round of 16 matches in the Europa League and the Conference League.
There is still no final decision from Urban regarding Pietuszewski, who is standing out with his performances for Porto. Meanwhile, fans and media are demanding his inclusion in the national team. However, the coach has expressed his reservations, emphasizing that it is still too early to create high expectations for such a young player.
Boniek says the young talent is likely to get a chance:
" In my opinion, he will get a chance, but even if that doesn't happen, it wouldn't be a surprise ."
He highlights the difficulties faced by debutants at the international level, also bringing his personal experience:
" A debutant focuses on avoiding mistakes, not deciding the match. Experienced players like Lewandowski, Zielinski and others should make the difference ."
According to him, excessive pressure should not be put on a 17-year-old, despite Pietuszewski being considered one of the most promising discoveries in Polish football in recent years. He adds that the absence of Nikola Zalewski due to suspension could increase the youngster's chances of being activated, even as a starter.
" We need to avoid labeling him as a savior. That serves neither the player nor the team ," Boniek emphasizes.
Next, the former footballer dwells on the importance of the match with Albania, warning about the danger this confrontation carries:
" A defeat to Albania would be a big blow to Polish football and would have serious consequences for the coach and the team ."
He describes Albania as a strong and unpredictable opponent, praising its form and experience in recent years:
" It's an intelligent team in the game and in one of its best moments. It has proven itself in the last qualifiers ."
Boniek also recalls that the last match between the two teams in Warsaw was won by Poland minimally, 1-0, and with great difficulty.
In conclusion, he underlines that despite the advantage on paper, Poland should not underestimate its opponent:
"Albania can surprise at any moment. It will be a very difficult match and there is no room for mistakes."
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