France's World Cup Hopes Dented as Poland Hold Them to Draw

Les Bleus fail to secure victory despite Mbappe goal

Paris, 4 December 2022

France's hopes of securing top spot in their World Cup group suffered a setback on Sunday as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Poland. Kylian Mbappe's first goal of the tournament gave Les Bleus the lead in the first half, but Poland hit back through Robert Lewandowski's penalty to earn a well-deserved point.

The result leaves France in second place in Group C, level on points with Poland but with an inferior goal difference. They now need to beat Tunisia in their final group game on Wednesday to guarantee their place in the knockout stages.

Didier Deschamps' side were far from their best against Poland, who defended resolutely and posed a threat on the counter-attack. Mbappe was a constant threat for France, but he was often isolated and unable to make a telling contribution.

Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny was in inspired form, making several key saves to deny the French. He was particularly impressive in the second half, when he saved a penalty from Antoine Griezmann and kept out a close-range effort from Karim Benzema.

Lewandowski's goal came against the run of play in the 74th minute. Mbappe had just wasted a glorious chance to put France 2-0 up, and Poland capitalized on their reprieve. Lewandowski was fouled in the box by Dayot Upamecano, and he confidently dispatched the resulting penalty.

France poured forward in search of a winner in the closing stages, but they were unable to break down Poland's stubborn defense. The draw means that both teams must win their final group games to guarantee their progress to the last 16.

Poland, who have now gone unbeaten in their last four matches against France, will face Argentina in their final group game on Wednesday. France, meanwhile, will take on Tunisia in a match that could decide who finishes top of the group.

In conclusion, France's draw with Poland has left their World Cup hopes hanging in the balance. They now need to beat Tunisia in their final group game to guarantee their place in the knockout stages. If they fail to do so, they could be relying on other results to go their way.