Frank Christian
The 2024 European Championship has kicked off with teams showing an attacking mindset, resulting in a flurry of goals in the early matches as the group stage unfolds.
Poland started on a positive note as Adam Buksa scored early in their Group D match against the Netherlands. However, goals from Cody Gakpo and Wout Weghorst led to Poland’s 2-1 defeat in the absence of Robert Lewandowski due to injury.
Lewandowski, with five goals in 11 Euro appearances before 2024, has been a consistent presence for Poland in the tournament. Despite making a return as a substitute against Austria, he couldn’t prevent a 3-1 loss that ended Poland’s Euro campaign.
Here is the latest update on Lewandowski’s injury and return to action.
Reason for Robert Lewandowski missing the Euro 2024 opener for Poland
Lewandowski suffered a thigh injury during Poland’s friendly against Turkey just before the start of Euro 2024, leaving him with limited time to recover.
He was substituted in the 32nd minute of the game, putting his participation in the European Championship at risk as he raced against time to heal before the tournament.
Lewandowski’s injury compounded Poland’s woes as another forward, Karol Swiderski, was also injured and replaced during the same match against Turkey.
Lewandowski back in the starting lineup for France match
After appearing as a substitute against Austria, Lewandowski was included in the starting lineup for Poland’s final Euro 2024 match against France.
Although Lewandowski’s absence was a setback for Poland, the team managed to cope without him. The striker’s performance with Barcelona in the previous season saw a decline in his impact on games.
Replacement for Robert Lewandowski in Euro 2024
Adam Buksa effectively filled in for Lewandowski by scoring in the match against the Netherlands.
The 27-year-old Lens striker partnered with teenager Kacper Urbanski in a 3-5-2 formation for Poland. Meanwhile, Karol Swiderski, who had been expected to replace Lewandowski, made a substitute appearance.
Former AC Milan striker Krzysztof Piatek, with a notable goal-scoring record, was also part of the team’s lineup for the Euro 2024 matches.
