Ochoa stands in Lewy’s path to first World Cup goal

Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny believes Robert Lewandowski will break his World Cup duck in Qatar and help his side reach the knockout phase for the first time since 1986, but the prolific forward will find regular World Cup performer Guillermo Ochoa standing in his way between the sticks of Mexico at the Stadium 974 in Doha on Tuesday.

Lewandowski is Poland's record scorer with 76 goals in 134 games but the Barcelona star failed to find the net four years ago in Russia as the Poles exited from the group stage.

The 34-year-old has struck 25 times across the last two World Cup qualifying campaigns but has yet to open his account at the finals.

"I think it's definitely important for him (to score)," Szczesny told reporters Monday on the eve of Poland's opening game against Mexico.

"He's very motivated before the World Cup. No one doubts that Robert is one of the best players in the world right now."

After eight record-breaking seasons at Bayern Munich, Lewandowski has been just as prolific in his first season with Barcelona -- hitting 18 goals in 19 appearances.

But Lewandowski will be facing a stern challenge from the Mexican stopper Ochoa, who attained somewhat of a cult hero status when it comes to World Cups as the keeper often steals the show for Mexico with stunning saves that defy his diminutive stature.

"Everyone, from when they are children, wants to play play against the best in the best competitions," said the 37-year-old Ochoa, who currently holds the record for the highest number of appearances as a goalkeeper for Mexico.

"I want to play a good game against them [Poland]. I want to show that Mexico are a capable side," Ochoa said.

But Szczesny backed Lewandowski to lead the line for the Poles.

"He would definitely like to see his ambitions come true, not only at club level but for his national team. This is a very important tournament.

"I do believe we'll add Robert Lewandowski to the great names of Polish football with what he does in Qatar."

Poland have failed to get past the group phase in their past three World Cups appearances, the last of which saw Szczesny punished for a mistake in the first match against Senegal.