Blanka Zajac has described captaining Poland at the U17 Women's World Cup as a milestone she could scarcely imagine a few months earlier. Her FIFA interview was conducted before the team's opening match in Morocco.
Poland subsequently beat Nigeria 2–1. Zajac's cross was involved in the move that produced Natalia Skrok's second goal, according to FIFA's opening-day report.
From watching to participating
Zajac recalled joining boys' training because few girls' teams were available locally. At her first session, she was so nervous that she spent much of the time watching from the touchline.
Her confidence grew with each visit. She now remembers those early sessions fondly as the beginning of her journey towards the national team.
She named Cristiano Ronaldo as an inspiration in the men's game and Ewa Pajor in women's football. Asked about meeting her younger self, Zajac said she would first need to explain the youth tournament she was attending.
Ambition grounded in each match
Before facing Nigeria, the captain described excitement rather than nerves. Poland were preparing for all three group opponents while concentrating immediately on their opening fixture.
She wanted the best possible finish but recognised how a single point, goal or small difference in the standings could determine progression. Those were ambitions rather than guarantees.
Zajac also hoped a squad that had spent considerable time together would create lasting memories. Her appeal for supporters to follow the matches accompanied a campaign that has since begun with a win, with further tests still ahead.