Football

Robert Lewandowski names one of his favourites to lift 2022 World Cup trophy

October 21, 2022 12:10 pm
Robert Lewandowski names one of his favourites to lift 2022 World Cup trophy

Barcelona and Poland star Robert Lewandowski has picked Argentina as one of his favourites to lift the 2022 World Cup trophy.

Speaking to FIFA, the striker believes Lionel Messi can help lead the South Americans to the latter stages of the competition this winter.

Poland finished second in their qualifying group for the tournament behind England, reaching Qatar thanks to a 2-0 playoff victory over Sweden. Their leader Lewandowski netted nine goals in qualifying, bettered only by the 12 of both Harry Kane and Memphis Depay.

Argentina “one of the favourites”

Lewandowski and Co. will take on the Argentines in their final group game in Qatar, which follows meetings with Mexico and Saudi Arabia. It’s certainly a tough task for Poland, with their lethal forward expecting Argentina to go far in the tournament.

“There’s not much to say when it comes to Argentina,” said Lewandowski. “They’re a huge team and one of the favourites to win the tournament in my opinion.

“With an absolute legend like Leo Messi as their figurehead, there’s no doubt that’ll be our toughest match. It’ll be great to take on such a great side with such talented players.”

Lewandowski and Messi have come face to face on the pitch on many occasions, but were denied a partnership at club level by just one year, with the latter leaving Barcelona for PSG in the summer of 2021, and the former moving to Barcelona from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2022.

LewandowskiLewandowski expecting tough challenge in Qatar

While Argentina will provide a hugely tricky test, Lewandowski is well aware of the other dangers that Poland face in Group C of the 2022 World Cup.

The striker noted: “Mexico are a tough team who fight all the way to the final whistle and never give up. They have a combination of youth and experience, and we’re well aware that the Mexicans know how to play at major tournaments. It’ll be a big challenge for us.

“Saudi Arabia are a surprise package. We know they have a solid defence and good tactical awareness. They are very agile and capable of good build-up play, so it’ll be up to us to decide how we approach that game.

“I think we’ll go into the group with a positive attitude. We’ll play every match with smiles on our faces even if we know it will be very tough.”

Lewandowski aware of growing expectations

The Barcelona forward has been in his usual lethal form once again this season, netting 16 goals in just 14 games in all competitions. 11 of those strikes have come in 10 La Liga matches, with his efforts ensuring the Catalan side keep the pace with rivals Real Madrid.

Lewandowski’s other five goals have come in four Champions League matches, a competition in which Barcelona have been somewhat underwhelming. Xavi’s outfit currently occupy third spot in Group C, behind Lewandowski’s former club Bayern and Italian side Inter Milan.

Speaking of his duties in front of goal, Lewandowski said: “I’m aware that the expectations grow every time I succeed and with every goal I score.

“No matter who we’re playing and what challenges we face out on the pitch, everyone expects me to score – and that’s not always possible. I know I should always have that hunger for goals.”

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