Nawalka tips Lewandowski to deliver in last-16 clash

Poland will face Switzerland in the last 16 at the European Championship on Saturday and boss Adam Nawalka believes star striker Robert Lewandowski will finally make his mark in Saint-Etienne.

A 1-0 win over the Ukraine in Marseille was enough to see Poland advance as runners-up behind Germany in Group C, with Jakub Blaszczykowski scoring the only goal after a neat passing move from the Poles.

Nawalka’s side have only hit the back of the net twice in three games after they also beat Northern Ireland 1-0 in their opening match before playing out a stalemate with Germany. Bayern Munich striker Lewandowski was the top scorer in qualifying with 13 goals but has yet to register in France.

Nawalka believes Lewandowski is contributing in other ways to the team ethos and is not panicking that his leading man has failed to ignite in front of goal so far. “That Lewandowski hasn’t scored for us yet is not a problem whatsoever,” the Polish boss said.

“He is doing a lot of hard work and has had a big influence on our wins and how we have played. He’s incredibly important to us.” Poland will fancy their chances against the Swiss in the last 16 and Nawalka is tipping Lewandowski to shine.

“He plays in a supportive way throughout and it’s just a matter of time for him. He’s creating a lot of chances and I think he’ll score in the next match,” he said.

With world champions Germany topping Group C ahead of Poland and tournament hosts France prevailing in Group A, Nawalka hinted that he already had his homework done on the Swiss ahead of their meeting.

“We have prepared some information on Switzerland. They play at a high level and they’re one of the more interesting teams at this tournament [but] we have faith and optimism that we’ll go further,” he added.

Poland are 2.60 to beat Switzerland, who are 3.00, while the draw is 2.88.