Poland vs. Russia Video: Watch Stunning Goal Breathe Life into Poland's Hopes

Polish winger Jakub Blaszczykowski blasted a left-footed strike past Russian goalkeeper Vyacheslav Malafeev to tie Poland’s Euro 2012 match with Russia at 1-1.

The Borussia Dortmund speedster made a run down the right flank and got a step on his defender. He received the ball and made a decisive cut towards the goal and then unleashed a wicked shot that curled neatly into the top-left corner of the net.

This was the goal of the tournament thus far. The momentum of a match can change in just two touches, and it couldn't have been illustrated any more perfectly than this.

The beauty of the goal may only be equaled by the magnitude of the situation.

The Russians convincingly won their first game against the Czech Republic, 4-1, while the Poles tied Greece, 1-1. A loss to Russia would have put them through to the semifinals and left the Poles with just one point after two games.

It would not have been impossible for them to move on from this position, but it certainly would have been unlikely.

Now, with two points, they control their own destiny against the Czech Republic.

Another angle to consider is the long and bitter history between the two countries. While the tension between these nations has softened over time, it is always evident when flags are waving and fans are dressed in patriotic colors.

This result will be cause for much celebration across the country.

Blaszczykowski’s strike was decisive and technically flawless. Soccer is a simple game, and sometimes, a play does not need to be complicated to produce a beautiful result.

Blaszczykowski proved this with his two-touch stunner.