Let us not forget that Northern Ireland finished first in in their qualifying group, OK it might not have been the strongest group, but nonetheless they performed well and came through in first place. They are generally playing with three central defenders and it is their defensive qualities that have been the main reason for their success so far. They also have a decent center forward in Kyle Lafferty. Still, it seems to me that the Poles are just stronger. Poland will also realise that three points in this game is a must and, with the new format, three points on match-day one puts anyone in a very strong position.
In the run up to this tournament Poland weren’t great in friendlies. They played poorly against Lithuania and got defeated by Holland, despite playing well. But now, they have their main man Lewandowski back in the squad. The Poles are a well-balanced team with top players in several positions, and they could be the dark horses of this tournament. Defensively they might not be the strongest, but against Northern Ireland – a team who will focus their attentions on defending themselves – Poland have a good opportunity to start the tournament on the front foot. Given their superior quality and the huge asset of Lewandowski up top Poland should win this game, although it is fancied that they will do this without blowing their opponents away. The best play here is Poland to win and under 3.5 goals.