Poland vs Estonia tips and predictions: Eagles to avoid latest embarrassment in Euro 2024 play-off

Despite being handed a dream qualifying group, Poland sensationally failed to secure a spot for the tournament in the traditional fashion.

Defeats to the Czech Republic, Moldova and Albania came as a massive shock for the side ranked 30th in the world, who inevitably finished third in their group – four points adrift of the top two.

Luckily for the Poles, they have been handed a lifeline in the form of the play-offs. Another bit of luck came in the draw as the team were handed a home clash with Estonia – a nation ranked 93 places below them.

When comparing the two squads, the gulf in quality is striking. Poland boast the likes of Juventus goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, Aston Villa’s Matty Cash, Napoli’s Piotr Zielinski, Brighton’s Jakub Moder and, most notably, Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski.

Estonia’s most prominent name is Arsenal goalkeeper Karl Hein. However, most Gunners fans have probably never heard of the 21-year-old who has made just three appearances for the U21 side this season.

On paper, Poland should get the job done with goals to spare. But as always, paper doesn’t tell the whole story.

The Eagles are struggling to find a system which would bring the best out of all their talent. Poland are also on their fifth manager in three years and have been beleaguered by scandals.

From arguments over bonuses to personal falling outs, the vibe around the Polish national side appears to be at an all-time low.

The likes of Albania, Moldova and the Czech Republic were able to capitalise on this during the qualifying group stage. Estonia will be looking to do the same, though their lack of quality doesn’t fill us with confidence.

With that in mind, we’re backing Poland to overcome their recent troubles and bag a spot in the play-off final with a 2-0 win in the correct score market.

Robert Lewandowski to score anytime is another top tip with the player scoring seven goals in his last nine games for Barcelona.

 

Team news

The most high-profile player to miss out on selection for Poland is Juventus forward Arkadiusz Milik.

Estonia, meanwhile, will be without their 39-year-old captain Konstantin Vassiljev who was set to make his 157th cap.

 

Key stats

- Poland are unbeaten in their last four matches

- Estonia are winless in 11 matches

- Poland’s last three victories have come by the 2-0 scoreline

- Estonia’s last competitive win came in September 2022 against San Marino

 

Suggested bets

Poland to win 2-0
Robert Lewandowski to score anytime
Under 2.5 goals