This post will probably be invalid or absolete in 30 minutes, when the Russians finally close out the Poles and book their ticket to the quarterfinals.

Of course, then again, and why not… what if it isn’t?

What if the Poles actually pull this thing off? And, yes, I’m aware of jinxes, but I’m also aware that Poland – ranked 62nd in the world – isn’t worried about jinxes against Russia. Hell, have you not been to the country’s Wikipedia page? Their history is jinxed.

(And, yes, my last name is Solinsky, so I feel I can say this.)

Today was looking like one of those Tuesdays where everything goes according to plan. Before the match in Russia, 56 arrests were made after Polish and Russian supporters clashed with each other during a “Russia Day”-based march to the stadium. That was expected.

Russia controlled Poland’s early attacks and scored before the half to take a 1-0 lead. That was expected.

And now, incomprehensibly, the Poles have struck back, the goal coming courtesy of a guy whose name nobody outside of South Winnipeg can probably pronounce. So, it’s tied 1-1, with the clock winding down.

They could tie. Can you imagine that? The Polish tying the Russkies?

Jesus, what if they actually win?