WARSAW, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- Austria national football team head coach Franco Foda says his side must not allow Poland to stretch their lead at the top of UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying Group G.
Both teams will meet on Monday in Warsaw, with Austria looking to avenge their defeat to Poland in the first week of qualifiers.
Having won their first four matches, Poland currently sit top of Group G as Austria reduced the deficit to three points last week when they smashed Latvia 6-0, while Poland surprisingly lost 2-0 to Slovenia in Ljubljana.
"We can't allow Poland to spread their wings," said Foda on Sunday. "We should stay on the ball. We are happy that we beat Latvia, but the clash in Warsaw will be completely different. We are ready for the high pace. After Poland's first defeat, the situation in the group has become more interesting."
Despite losing in Slovenia, Poland coach Jerzy Brzeczek remains confident his players can beat Austria. "We will play without fear. Austria is a strong opponent, but we still sit top. In football, collectivity is the most important thing, but we also need individuals who can make the difference on the pitch."
"My players are aware that they made some mistakes in Ljubljana. However, I still have trust in my team. I hope our fans will help us," added Brzeczek.
