Robert Lewandowski of Poland runs with the ball between Poland and Saudi Arabia during the World Cup Group C football match at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar, 26 November 2022. (Francisco Seco/AP Photo)
ALRAYAN, Qatar—Robert Lewandowski finally scored a goal in Saturday’s World Cup as Poland edged Saudi Arabia 2-0 to improve his side’s chances of advancing to the knockout stage.
Lewandowski moved to tears with a goal in the 82nd minute. He ran into the corner with his arms outstretched and remained slumped on the field while his teammates rushed to congratulate him.
It was the Polish forward’s first World Cup goal in his fifth appearance.
The 34-year-old Lewandowski also kept the ball after goalkeeper Mohamed Al-Owais’ first block in the 40th minute, before Piotr Zielinski returned the ball for a knock-in.
Al Owais denied Lewandowski had scored a second goal late in the game.
Poland battled for a long time at the Education City stadium, with the Saudi team being outmaneuvered by enthusiastic fans in what looked like a home game.
Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny saved a penalty for Salem Al Daussari at the end of the first half. He then blocked a shot by Mohammed Al-Bulaik from the rebound.
Poland will next face Argentina, while Saudi Arabia will face Mexico in their final Group C match.
Ciaran Fahey
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