Photo: Wembley National Stadium Ltd
Friday’s 4:1 victory against Montenegro was a huge step toward the FIFA qualification. Now England needs to win against Poland on Tuesday, October 15th at Wembley to secure automatic qualification for the World Cup in Brazil next year.
Tuesdays match against Poland at Wembley is an absolutely huge occasion for England, as if they win then they will qualify for next summer’s World Cup Finals in Brazil, so the stakes could not be higher. Last Friday night’s 4-1 victory against Montenegro was well deserved for England as there were plenty of positives such as the outstanding performances of debutant Andros Townsend (Tottenham) and Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge.
Whilst England were beating Montenegro, the Ukraine were also gaining a victory against Poland which means that it is win or bust for England against the same opponents this Tuesday. The reality of the situation will not be lost on anyone in the England camp, particularly manager Roy Hodgson as his job will be under serious scrutiny if qualification does not become a reality.
One negative regarding team selection for England is the fact that full back Kyle Walker is suspended for the Poland game due to the yellow card he received on Friday night. Manchester United defenders Chris Smalling or Phil Jones will potentially be Walkers replacement against Poland, but the Tottenham man’s absence will still be a blow due to his impressive performances recently.
Whilst Poland only have pride to play for against England, they will still be motivated to end their campaign on a high, and gaining a victory against the odds at the home of Football in Wembley Stadium will certainly be a huge boost to Poland.
They have some quality players in their ranks such as Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski who is one of the most lethal forwards in the world at the moment. Another player that will be a threat to England is winger and Captain Jakub Blaszczykowski, who has stated recently that they will be eager to cause an upset at Wembley.
The atmosphere on Tuesday should be fantastic as the England fans will be urging their side on to a good performance, whilst it has been stated that there will be substantial away support too, so tickets will be in short supply the closer the game gets.
