Poland Defeats Malta 2-0 In World Cup Qualifier

Poland celebrated a solid victory against Malta by a score of 2-0 during their World Cup 2026 qualifiers held on March 24, 2025, at PGE Narodowy in Warsaw. Karol Świderski emerged as the hero, scoring both goals for the Polish national team in the 27th and 51st minutes of the match.

The match kicked off at 20:45, with the Polish team looking to follow up their win against Lithuania just a few days prior. In that game, they managed to secure a narrow 1-0 victory thanks to a goal by Robert Lewandowski. This time, however, they aimed for a more comfortable win, and they delivered with authority against Malta, who sits low in the FIFA ranking.

The lineup featured a mix of experienced and younger players, with Mateusz Skorupski in goal and an attacking trio of Świderski, Piątek, and the youthful Jakub Kamiński. Poland’s coach, Michał Probierz, opted to make several changes from the previous match, including the decision to bench captain Robert Lewandowski for much of the game.

Świderski opened the scoring when he capitalized on a defensive error in the 27th minute, tapping in a low cross from the right side after a well-constructed team move. His composure in front of goal was evident as he expertly found the back of the net.

After the break, Poles continued to dominate. In the 51st minute, Świderski struck again, this time hitting a precise shot from the edge of the area following a pass from Moder. The Polish side showed determination, aiming for a more substantial goal difference and keeping their opponents firmly on the back foot.

During the match, Poland created numerous chances, showcasing their offensive prowess. Contributions from players like Szymański and Moder played a significant role. Moder, particularly, was busy throughout the game and came close to scoring on several occasions.

As Poland pushed for a third goal, they faced a few scares from Malta's attacks, notably one through Chouaref, who tested goalkeeper Skorupski with a powerful shot in the 6th minute. However, Poland’s defense held firm. Skorupski's vital saves helped secure a clean sheet, allowing the team to end the match with another solid performance.

In the waning moments of the game, Malta's frustrations boiled over resulting in a red card for one of their players following a dangerous tackle in the 90th minute. Wieteska, who had been on the receiving end of the foul, initially required medical attention but returned to the pitch shortly after.

This match not only added three vital points to Poland's tally, bringing them to six points in Group G of the qualifiers, but also reinforced their position as a team on the rise as they prepare for upcoming matches against Finland and the Netherlands.

The attendance reflected the game's importance, with fans enthusiastic to support the national team, especially after the tight contest with Lithuania days earlier. Among the notable attendees was Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who humorously tweeted about blending in with the ordinary fans while enjoying the match. After the game, he appreciated the performance, stating, "The match was average, but the outcome was better, and I enjoy being incognito among regular fans — that is the best part."

As the national team looks towards their next challenge, the squad will regroup and fine-tune strategies in anticipation of tougher matches ahead, with the hopes of qualifying for yet another World Cup at stake. With their recent performances, Poland is demonstrating improvement and gaining momentum, creating optimism among supporters.

The display against Malta showcased not just the determination of the Polish players but a broader ambition for the squad. With the right adjustments and continued focus, Poland could very well solidify their position in international football.

With the qualifiers underway, fans will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on the Biało-Czerwoni, cheering them on as they aim to make their mark on the World Cup stage next year.