The best 30 players at the World Cup
By James Dudko
16. Robert Lewandowski, striker, Poland
Robert Lewandowski has a lot on his shoulders whenever he represents his country. He is the lone world-class player in Poland’s squad, but doesn’t have the supporting cast able to supply him with the chances he needs to thrive.
Lewandowski is never short of chances at Bayern Munich. But dealing with a restricted diet at international level means he has to be more efficient with less.
It’s a tough ask for any striker, even though Lewandowski is better than most. His movement, power, short-area quickness and aerial prowess are threats against any defense.
Expressing those qualities will be difficult in a Group H tougher than it looks. Japan are a useful side with quality in possession, while Colombia can lean on familiar stars James Rodriguez, Radamel Falcao and Carlos Bacca.
Meanwhile, Senegal have plenty of cutting edge and pace thanks to Liverpool wide man Sadio Mane.
Lewandowski will need help from capable midfielders Jakub Blaszczykowski, Piotr Zielinski and Maciej Rybus.