Lewandowski misses a crucial penalty as Mexico and Poland settle for scoreless draw

An opening game at the Stadium 974 in Qatar saw Poland and Mexico playing out a goalless draw.

Guillermo Ochoa blocked former Bayern Munich striker, Lewandwoski’s penalty to deny the European side the chance to claim victory.

However, both halves largely belonged to Mexico who didn’t just produce the only shot on target in the first half but also dominated possession.

Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny made a late save in the first half to keep the scoreboard blank. Robert Lewandowski, arguably the biggest star in the match, was not able to make an impact in the game.

Alexis Vega and Hirving Lozano were in brilliant form for Mexico but failed to find a late winner, as Poland defended deep through the match.

Meanwhile, Lewandowski could have won the match for Poland after getting fouled in the box during the second-half but Ochoa was in his brilliant best to block the Poland captain’s penalty.

This was always expected to be an even contest, and the result shows. Mexico, despite dominating possession to the tune of 61%, and completing 487 passes to Poland’s 322, just didn’t work Szczesny enough to show for their effort.

Poland continued to rely on defensive lapses with their threatening counter-attacking play, but were thwarted time and time again by Mexico’s resolute defence.

The turning point of the match will undoubtedly be Lewandowski’s failure to convert from the spot as it would have secured a vital three points for Poland in a group that has already been blown wide open thanks to the earlier Argentinian setback against Saudi Arabia.

The draw will be good news for both Saudi Arabia and Argentina in Group C, with the Arab country grabbing a win against Lionel Messi and Co.