Bartłomiej Lemański did not try to hide it: after three confident victories in nine sets, the Polish national team is stepping up to a new level of opponents. The upcoming matches — against Ukraine and Bulgaria — are no longer about a leisurely stroll, but about a genuine test of strength.
In an interview with Polsat Sport, the middle blocker said outright: "This will be a different level of opponents, and we need to focus on that right now." When the team returns to the hotel, preparations will begin immediately. Such words from an experienced player sound like a signal: the complacency is over.
Poland looks dominant in Group B, but the schedule offers no respite. Bulgaria is always dangerous on home soil, and Ukraine is capable of surprises. Lemański emphasizes: you have to switch on immediately, without pauses. Psychologically, this matters — the team must not lose concentration after easy wins.
The fans in Sofia are already creating an advantage in the stands, and Lemański noted their support. On the court, however, the details will decide everything: blocks, reception, and the ability to keep one's nerves in the key moments. A single long rally can change the course of the entire tournament.
Just as in chess, where the real game begins after the opening, so it is here: the group stage is merely a warm-up. Lemański reminds us that it is precisely now that the foundation for the playoffs is being laid. Any loss of focus will come at a high price.
Lemański's words are not just a comment, but a reminder of how quickly the dynamics change in big-time sports. Those who do not prepare for things to get harder are quickly eliminated. The Polish team, judging by the player's tone, understands this perfectly well.
