Lech Poznań returned to the top of the PKO Ekstraklasa table with a hard-fought 3:1 victory over Zagłębie Lubin on February 23, 2025. This match was more than just another game; it was pivotal for the home team, who needed the win to secure their leading position against fierce competition. The hero of the night was undoubtedly Patrik Walemark, whose early contributions played a significant role in driving Lech to victory.
The match kicked off with immediate action as Walemark showcased his exceptional talent just two minutes in. He scored the first goal of the game with a stunning free kick, finding the back of the net and showcasing why he is Lech's most expensive player, valued at €1.8 million. Walemark didn’t stop there; by the 18th minute, he had secured his brace, dancing past Zagłębie's defenders and placing the ball precisely beyond the reach of goalkeeper Dominik Hładun, restoring Lech's lead after Zagłębie equalized.
Zagłębie Lubin, managed by Marcin Włodarski, did not make it easy for Lech. Just ten minutes after Walemark's opener, Damian Michalski levelled the score for the visitors with a close-range header, demonstrating Zagłębie's resilience and ability to rebound quickly from conceding. They pressed Lech throughout the first half, creating opportunities, and testing goalkeeper Bartosz Mrozek.
Despite their efforts, the first half ended with Lech holding on to their narrow lead. The team started to struggle as the game progressed, facing a formidable challenge from Zagłębie’s forward play. The second half saw both teams battling hard, with Zagłębie continually pressing for another equalizer. The atmosphere at the Enea Stadion turned tense as fans, witnessing their team scrapping for points, expressed their frustration with jeers when they felt Lech wasn’t performing up to expectations.
With the game hanging in the balance, it was Rasmus Carstensen who eventually put the match beyond doubt for Lech. His goal came late, at the 79th minute, punctuating Lech's efforts with his finishing skills and bringing relief to the home fans. The chants from the supporters, "Lidera mamy, za ch*** go nie oddamy!" ("We have the leader; we won't give him up for anything!"), echoed through the stadium, reflecting their pride and loyalty to the team.
The victory allowed Lech Poznań to maintain their spot at the top of the table with 44 points, just one point clear of their closest rivals, Raków Częstochowa. Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounds Zagłębie’s position as they sit just above the relegation zone with 22 points, showcasing the precarious situation they find themselves in, compounded by two consecutive defeats.
Fans of Lech came out to support their team, but the attendance of just 16,610 was noted as the lowest of the season. Despite the disappointing turnout, the fans remained vocal and passionate, showing their unwavering support and attachment to their team.
Following the match, player performances were up for scrutiny, and though Walemark was undoubtedly the star of the show with his two goals, there were concerns over Alex Douglas, who struggled throughout and was named the weakest link on Lech’s defense. His inability to perform was highlighted with no clearances and losing battles leading to Zagłębie’s scoring opportunities.
The evening concluded with Lech securing their 14th victory this season, proving their aspirations for the title, and emphasizing their determination to fend off competition. The stakes will surely continue to rise as the season progresses, particularly for Zagłębie who must regroup and find their momentum if they wish to avoid falling deep within the relegation zone.
Despite this being just one match, the intensity and drama on the pitch are reflective of what’s to come as teams jostle for their standings within the league. The triumph was not just another win for Lech; it was a reaffirmation of their status as the team to beat this season.