Poland's October Matches: Faroe Islands and Moldova

 Poland's October Matches: Faroe Islands and Moldova

Poland's October Matches: Faroe Islands and Moldova(Image-Getty)

Poland has made the decision to part ways with Portuguese coach Fernando Santos, as announced by the Polish Football Association (PZPN) following their 2-0 defeat in Albania. This loss has left Poland facing challenges in their quest to qualify for Euro 2024.

Santos, who previously led Portugal to victory in Euro 2016, took charge of Poland in January, succeeding Czeslaw Michniewicz, who was dismissed after Poland's elimination in the Qatar World Cup, where they were defeated by France in the round of 16.

As things stand, Poland currently sits in fourth place in qualifying Group E with six points from five games. They are trailing leaders Albania by four points, with a two-point gap behind the second-placed Czech Republic and Moldova.

After the recent defeat in Tirana, Santos had expressed that he was not considering resignation. However, the Polish Football Association (PZPN) has now made the decision to prioritize the selection of a new manager.

PZPN President Cezary Kulesza stated in a release, "The selection of a new manager is now a priority for the board of the Polish Football Association (PZPN), so we will soon announce when the presentation of the new coach will take place."

Poland's journey under Santos had its ups and downs. They began with a 3-1 loss to the Czech Republic, which was Santos's first game in charge and their opening Euro 2024 qualifier. However, they bounced back with a 1-0 victory over Albania.

In June, Poland secured a notable victory against Germany in a friendly match. Nevertheless, they faced setbacks, notably letting slip a 2-0 halftime lead against Moldova and ultimately losing 3-2. They also struggled to secure a 2-0 win against Faroe Islands, with a penalty by Robert Lewandowski in the 73rd minute breaking the deadlock against a team ranked 129th in the world.

Poland's upcoming fixtures include a trip to the Faroe Islands in October, followed by a home game against Moldova as they strive to improve their position in the Euro 2024 qualification campaign.