After a lackluster first half, however, Poland regained pace after the restart as Beenhakker introduced Euzebiusz Smolarek, who was dramatically omitted from the starting lineup.

The Santander striker went so close in the 81st minute when, using a neat little drag back, he skipped away from two challenges and unleashed a left-footed effort, which curled inches wide.

In another match in Vienna, Michael Ballack's free-kick lifted Germany to a 1-0 victory over co-hosts Austria.

Germany's Michael Ballack (L) vies with Austria's Juergen Saeumel during a Euro 2008 Group B football match in Vienna June 16, 2008. Germany won the match 1-0.

Ballack scored by a powerful 28-yard free kick in the 49th minute, the first goal on a direct free kick in Euro 2008. The shot was so speedy that Austria goalkeeper Jurgen Macho got caught slightly off his line. In a sold-out Ernst-Happel Stadium, Germany staged attack waves one after another during the first ten minutes as they were striving to booking a seat for the last eight.

However, ambitious Germany encountered fierce countattacks from co-hosts Austria.

Germany's Clemens Fritz (C) vies with Austrian players during a Euro 2008 Group B football match in Vienna June 16, 2008.

In the 22nd minute Austrian striker Erwin Hoffer could face Lehmann directly, but he misplaced the ball. In the 36th minute, Austria's Umit Korkmaz drove in a cross to the center of the area, but Christian Fuchs' header was over the top.

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