Joel Pohjanpalo and Benjamin Kallman’s goals secured a 2-1 victory for Finland against Poland in Helsinki on Tuesday, propelling the hosts to the top of their World Cup qualifying group.
Pohjanpalo Penalty Opens Scoring After Skorupski Error
The home team gained an advantage in the 31st minute when Finnish striker Pohjanpalo took the ball from Polish goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski. Skorupski subsequently committed a foul on Robin Lod, leading to Pohjanpalo successfully scoring from the penalty spot.
In the 64th minute, substitute Kallman hammered home Oliver Antman’s squared pass across the box to increase Finland lead. 5mins later, Jakub Kiwior bundled the ball into the net to give Poland a response.
Medical Stoppage Fails to Derail Finland Historic Quest
Despite a lengthy stoppage of play in the 80th mins due to a significant medical issue in the fans, Poland failed to find another goal, and Finland, hoping to earn a spot in their first World Cup, held on to win all 3 points.
Poland’s readiness has been clouded by Robert Lewandowski’s choice to opt out of playing for current coach Michal Probierz after losing the captaincy, with Piotr Zielinski, who is currently injured, stepping in to take his place.
Finland Leads After Poland Win
Finland leads the Netherlands, who thrashed Malta 8-0, by one point after four games in Group G, although the Dutch still have two games left. Poland has three games played and is currently in third place with six points.
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