Poland’s Wojciech Szczesny Makes Spectacular Double-Save on Penalty

Poland’s Wojciech Szczesny Makes Spectacular Double-Save on Penalty originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

Wojciech Szczesny took notes from Mexicos Guillermo Ochoa.

Days after Ochoa became a national hero by denying Robert Lewandowski and Poland an easy penalty, Szczesny got a block of his own, salvaging Polands first-half lead against Saudi Arabia.

While Saudi Arabia riding the high of its upset win over Argentina looked like the better team through much of the first half, it was Poland that struck first thanks to a quick transition by Szczesny that later resulted in a goal by Piotr Zielinski in the 39th minute.

The momentum from that goal was short lived as VAR awarded a penalty to Saudi Arabia after Krystian Bieliktook down Saleh Al Shehr in the box. Supported by the roar of the overwhelming number of Saudi fans, Salem Al-Dawsari team captain and hero of the Argentina match stepped up for Saudi Arabia as the game entered a 10-minute stoppage time.

With the lead on the line, it was all Szczesny.

The 32-year-old dove right to block the ball before popping back to up to get a hand on Mohammed Al-Burayks follow-up.

Poland held on to head to the lockerroom with a 1-0 lead.

A win by Saudi Arabia would guarantee it a spot in the round of 16.