M.S. How would you estimate the last match against Germany in comparison to the World Cup defeat in 2006. Was the style satisfactory?

G.L. Yes, their playing was nice to watch but there was no efficiency. If you play against Germany you should grab any chance possible and turn it into score. You must score at least once. Otherwise you can’t even dream about a draw. It was not at all satisfactory when Krzynówek missed his chance in the third minute of the game and Zurawski a little bit later, and the players were ineffective throughout the whole game.

M.S. Who would you single out as a prominent player of yesterday’s game from both sides?

G.L. I would not point to anybody from the Polish side, but among the Germans I would say Ballack and Podolski were the best.

M.S. Do you think Germany can win the tournament after what you have seen in the game?

G.L: They are definitely among the main favourites, but it is hard to say whether they will win. There are some crucial games to be played in the group phase to see which team is in a shape to seize medals. First of all, the group of death has some formidable teams, and it must be admitted that Portugal’s performance was impressive, while Germany sooner or later will have to face Portugal if they wish to lift the cup.

M.S. What about Poland then, and their chances to go through to the next round? Which team remains in their reach, Germany or Croatia?

G.L. In my opinion, we should leave aside any questions about who we will have to fight with for the second place. A win with Austria is a must. There is no point in any speculation about whether the Croatian or German team is better. This is none of our business unless we beat Austria.

M.S. You were at the stadium. Could you feel a negative and hostile atmosphere towards Podolski after he scored twice and dashed the hopes of Polish supporters?

G.L. Yes this is true. There was obviously a hostile sentiment to Podolski. However, I think this is always the case with supporters. The same could be if hypothetically speaking Roger Guereirro developed his skills and became an international star. Then, in any game against Brazil, supporters could express similar resentment. Lukas Podolski decided to play for Germany for life and, personally, I respect his choice. I have great esteem for his attitude and public declaration of Polish identity. He has been living in Germany since he was a little boy and still kept strong relations with Poland. I appreciate that. In Klagenfurt he talked to Polish players, exchanged t-shirt, and there was no hostility at all in the dressing room.