Football

Robert Lewandowski, the prolific Polish striker, is eagerly anticipating a sentimental return to Germany for Euro 2024. Having spent a significant portion of his illustrious career in the Bundesliga, Lewandowski left an indelible mark on German football.During his stints at Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich, Lewandowski amassed an astonishing 312 goals in 384 Bundesliga appearances, becoming the competition's second-highest scorer behind Gerd Mueller. He also holds the record for the most Bundesliga top scorer awards, sharing the honor with Mueller with seven accolades."It's already sentimental for me, a return to the country where I spent many years, where I lived, and where I played in these stadiums," Lewandowski expressed to Polish TV channel TVN. He emphasized his positive outlook and appreciation for his current position in life and career.However, Poland faces a daunting task in Germany after narrowly securing their Euro spot through a penalty shootout victory over Wales in the play-offs. The team has also grappled with leadership challenges, having cycled through five coaches in the past three years.Despite the setbacks, Poland's current manager, Michal Probierz, remains optimistic about their chances. "We don't want to just go there on tour. We want to play a very good tournament, get out of the group, and fight for something more," he declared.Poland has been drawn into a challenging Group D, facing the Netherlands, Austria, and France. It will be their fifth consecutive appearance at the continental tournament, having reached the quarter-finals in 2016.Lewandowski, who has played in the last three Euros, is hoping for a different outcome this time around. "I have changed my approach to these big tournaments a bit, because I'm aware of the high expectations and that there will be pressure," he said.He praised the team's positive atmosphere and chemistry, stating, "I can definitely say that there is an atmosphere, there is chemistry, we seem to be aware of it, what we are preparing for and what a great tournament lies ahead of us."Lewandowski's inner peace stems from the team's strong work ethic and dedication in training. "The training really looks nice, and the way the boys approach training, there is nothing to complain about," he remarked.

Robert Lewandowski's second-half hat-trick propelled Barcelona to a thrilling 4-2 victory over 10-man Valencia in La Liga on Monday. The win keeps Barcelona's title hopes alive, denying Real Madrid the chance to clinch the crown with a win over Cadiz next Saturday.Despite the threat of rain and a Monday night slot, 30,000 fans witnessed an entertaining clash at the Olympic Stadium. Valencia took the lead through Fermin Lopez, but Hugo Duro and Pepelu's penalty turned the game in their favor.However, Barcelona's fortunes changed when Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili was sent off for handball late in the first half. Lewandowski equalized soon after the break, and his late brace sealed the victory for the Catalans.Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez praised his team's attitude despite their early struggles. "We lacked calmness, but I'm satisfied with the team's attitude," he said.Valencia, who are eighth in the standings, created early chances but failed to capitalize. Barcelona took the lead through Lopez's header, but Valencia responded quickly after Marc-Andre ter Stegen's error allowed Duro to score.Araujo's penalty concession made matters worse for Barcelona, but Mamardashvili's dismissal proved to be a turning point. Lewandowski's header and close-range finish put Barcelona back in front, and his free-kick in stoppage time sealed the win."We can always score three or four goals if we lose one or two," said Lewandowski. "It's easier for everyone if we score a lot of goals."Barcelona's victory moves them two points ahead of Girona, who they face next Saturday. A Girona win could hand Madrid the title, but Xavi is confident his team can put up a fight. "It will be a great game, two teams looking to go on the attack," he said.