Lewandowski Reveals How Poland Neutralized Frenkie de Jong in World Cup Qualifier
The Netherlands and Poland played out a 1–1 draw in their 2026 World Cup qualifying clash — a match that also saw Barcelona teammates Frenkie de Jong and Robert Lewandowski go head-to-head.
While neither player registered a goal or assist, Lewandowski later admitted that Poland had leaned on his inside knowledge of de Jong’s game to stifle the Dutch midfielder’s influence.
“We defended well today. My main role was to limit Frenkie de Jong,” Lewandowski told reporters after the match. “I couldn’t let him get comfortable, start dictating play, or dance with the ball — because that’s what gives him rhythm.”
The Polish striker explained that he set the tone from the opening minutes:
“I knew I had to get to him early, make contact, and force him to move the ball faster. That was my job — to stop him from building momentum.”
The tactical duel between the two Barça stars proved pivotal, with Poland successfully frustrating de Jong.
