Lewandowski says World Cup will be challenging

WARSAW - Poland captain Robert Lewandowski admitted that his team will face an uphill task at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

"I don't know whether it will be the last big tournament for me, but I'm sure we will participate in a special competition, which will be different from the previous editions. We will play the competition during the season without additional preparations," Lewandowski said on Wednesday, ahead of his team's match against the Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League on Thursday.

This match will be one of Poland's last main tests before the World Cup, where they will face Argentina, Mexico and Saudi Arabia in the group stage.

"I don't see us as favorites to move into the next stage. Mexico always play very well on the big stage, while every opponent will be difficult to beat. It's a big challenge for us to fly to Qatar and play the most important match of the year. I believe the result of our first game against Mexico will be crucial," the forward added.

The 34-year-old has made a perfect start to life at Barcelona after joining the club from Bayern Munich this summer. Lewandowski sits top of La Liga's goalscoring chart with eight goals from six games.

"To be honest I didn't expect to start so well in a new place. I was aware that my first weeks were important not only for me, but for the whole team. I did everything to help the team from the first day. I feel proud that I play for FC Barcelona," he said.