After a shocking result in Group C’s first match at the 2022 World Cup, Mexico and Poland both have an opportunity to pounce.
The two side meet Tuesday following Saudi Arabia’s shocking win over Argentina. The presumption entering the World Cup was that La Albiceleste, who entered on a 36-match unbeaten streak, would coast by the Saudis at the very least, placing additional pressure on Mexico and Poland to win their head-to-head matchup. But with Argentina falling, there’s a chance to get out ahead of Messi & Co. and build toward advancement. That places all the more emphasis on this curtain-raiser, featuring a Mexico side that has made seven straight knockout stages (and lost in the round of 16 each time) and a Poland group led by Robert Lewandowski that’s seeking plenty more after a disappointing showing in Russia in 2018.