Robert Lewandowski scored his first ever World Cup goal to secure a vital win for Poland against a spirited Saudi Arabia, APA reports citing The Telegraph.
For much of the first half Poland were the second best team – with three of their players booked in the first 20 minutes – but Piotr Zielenski put his side ahead against the run of play in the 39th minute.
Saudi Arabia, who played with intensity and caused problems across the pitch from the outset, had a chance to hit back almost instantly when Krystian Bielik conceded a penalty.
Salem Al Dawsari stepped up from 12 yards but Polish keeper Wojciech Szczęsny saved his attempt, and then followed that up with another crucial stop as he tipped over Al Burayk's rebound.
The second half followed much the same pattern, but the game was still in the balance with 10 minutes remaining. In the 83rd minute Lewandowski punished a defensive mistake by Abdulellah Al Malki to slot home for his first ever World Cup goal, securing a crucial three points for Poland.
After two games Poland sit top of Group C with four points, having previously drawn with Mexico, and Saudi Arabia have three points taken from their opening game against Argentina. Argentina play Mexico in Saturday's 7pm kick-off.
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